Residents across west-central Saskatchewan are being urged to keep an eye on the skies Friday, as forecasters warn of a potential for severe thunderstorms heading into the evening.
A developing low-pressure system over central Alberta is fuelling storm activity across the Prairies. Southern winds are pushing in heat and modest moisture, creating the conditions needed for thunderstorms to form late this afternoon.
While not all storms are expected to reach severe levels, Environment Canada says some could pack a punch, with strong winds and large hail being the main threats. The greatest risk lies in the southwest corner of the province, including areas near the Alberta border.
If the smoke in the upper atmosphere clears enough for full daytime heating, we could see stronger cells develop. There’s a lot of energy in the atmosphere, and it only takes a spark to get things going.
Storms could begin popping up around 3 or 4 p.m. and persist through the evening. The threat may continue overnight, although storms are expected to weaken in intensity after dark.
Despite the risk of severe weather, the rainfall could offer some much-needed relief to dry fields and fire-prone regions. Air quality, which had been reduced by wildfire smoke earlier in the week, has improved significantly and all air quality statements have now ended.
The system is expected to linger through the weekend, with storm activity shifting further into Saskatchewan on Saturday. Additional thunderstorms are likely in the south and central regions, again carrying risks of hail, strong winds, and localized heavy rain.
Officials are reminding residents to monitor local weather alerts and have a plan in place should severe weather develop.