As Saskatchewan heads into another severe weather season, officials are urging residents to take practical steps to prepare for storms, tornadoes, and extreme conditions as part of Emergency Preparedness Week, running May 4 to 10, 2025.
This year’s theme, “Be prepared. Know your risks,” emphasizes understanding local weather hazards and having emergency plans and kits ready—particularly as unseasonably warm temperatures are already setting the stage for early storm activity.
“We are entering the time of year where the risk of severe weather increases significantly across the province,” said Danielle Desjardins, warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada. “Planning ahead—knowing where to seek shelter and having an emergency kit—can make all the difference during a dangerous weather event.”
Desjardins said the severe weather season typically begins in mid-May, but early indicators suggest conditions could escalate sooner. She recommends families prepare by identifying safe shelter locations at home, work, campsites or recreational areas, and by regularly checking weather forecasts and alerts.
“People need to know the safest place to go—especially if they’re camping or playing outdoor sports,” Desjardins said. “Tents and campers are not adequate protection in severe storms. A permanent structure with a basement or interior room away from exterior walls is ideal.”
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is using the week to share preparedness resources and will conduct a province-wide SaskAlert test on Wednesday, May 7 at 1:55 p.m. The alert will appear on wireless devices, radio, TV, and the SaskAlert app to ensure systems are functioning in advance of summer storms.
Essential items in a 72-hour emergency kit include:
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A flashlight and extra batteries
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Portable radio or weather radio
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Non-perishable food and bottled water
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First-aid supplies
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Extra clothing and blankets
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Personal medications and important documents
Desjardins also emphasized the importance of mobile apps and alert systems. “The WeatherCAN app and weather.gc.ca offer up-to-date warnings and watches,” she said. “These tools give people time to take action before conditions worsen.”
More information on building emergency kits and planning for weather-related events is available at saskpublicsafety.ca.