Weyburn and the surrounding area could see some April showers this weekend. However, it could be a little more than just showers by the time the system moves past the region.
Stephen Berg, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, says a weather system moving into the region beginning Saturday night is expected to bring a much-needed boost to moisture levels.
“We’re looking at some rain starting Saturday night and lasting all the way into Monday morning,” Berg explained. “There is some chance that Sunday night into Monday morning might bring some snow in there too.”
The region could see anywhere from 10 to 25 millimetres of rainfall, with the possibility of 5 to 10 centimetres of snow on top of that in some areas. Berg noted that some of the precipitation totals could be a combination of both rain and snow, meaning total precipitation could reach between 15 and 30 millimetres.
Such an amount would mark a significant improvement over last year, when Weyburn only recorded 14 millimetres for the entire month of April. With spring seeding just around the corner, this moisture would be particularly welcome news for area farmers.
The snowfall could also bring back some memories for the region as well, as this month also marks the two-year anniversary of the largest snowfall in Weyburn’s history. On April 19th, 2023, the city received 61 centimetres, or just over 24 inches, in less than 24 hours.
The system, a Colorado low, is tracking into northwestern Ontario and pulling cooler air behind it, which is what opens the door for snow and even the possibility of freezing rain or icy conditions overnight.
“There’s a possibility of some of the rain freezing on surfaces with the overnight temperature drops Sunday night and into Monday,” Berg warned. “That could mean icy roads and sidewalks, so people should take caution if they’re travelling or even just walking around early in the day.”
As for the potential for thunderstorms, Berg said it looks unlikely. “It looks generally to be non-thunderstorm precipitation,” he said, although there is a slight chance of a “rogue lightning strike.” Most of the unstable air associated with thunderstorm potential will stay south of the border.
After the system clears out early Monday, temperatures are expected to remain slightly below seasonal averages at first, with typical April highs around 11° and lows near -2°, but should rebound by mid-week.
You can stay up to date with the latest forecast by visiting the Discover Weyburn Weather page.