The first notable spring rainfall of the season is expected to arrive in west-central Saskatchewan on Tuesday, with forecasters calling for 10 to 20 millimetres of rain in scattered pockets throughout the region.
Environment Canada says a low-pressure system moving across the Prairies will bring steady precipitation beginning early Tuesday morning, with the heaviest amounts expected throughout the day and tapering off by Wednesday.
The rainfall comes at an ideal time, with the spring melt nearly complete and fields beginning to dry. The additional moisture will play a key role in replenishing topsoil, which is crucial for early-season seeding and germination.
Moisture in the early spring is vital to set the stage for crop growth. It helps recharge the soil after the melt and improves overall soil health, especially in areas that were dry heading into winter.
Communities in the Kindersley, Rosetown and Biggar areas could see moderate rainfall totals, though amounts will vary due to the scattered nature of the system. Agricultural producers across the region have been closely watching conditions as they prepare for another growing season following a dry 2024 for many parts of Saskatchewan.
While this week’s rainfall isn’t expected to pose any flood risk, it may briefly slow down field preparations. Still, agronomists say the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.
Any early-season rain is welcome, it can be the difference between a good start or a challenging one.