After multiple days of persistent poor air quality, we are in for a temporary reprieve. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) conditions are significantly improved heading into the weekend.
“The air is a lot cleaner, the air quality is a lot better,” said ECCC meteorologist, Crawford Luke, noting that the change is well-timed as today and tomorrow are expected to be warm and dry, ideal for outdoor activities.
“I am hoping that people are taking advantage today and tomorrow to get outside.”
The break in smokey conditions is a welcome one as Regina (the nearest official monitoring station to Moose Jaw) has already logged a total of 99 hours of smoke this month. It’s already the second smokiest July on record, just behind last year’s high-water mark of 103 total hours.
“That’s with several days still to go in the month,” Luke added.
He cautioned that a shift in the wind could make the break from smokey conditions a rather short one.
“We might see the smoke return Sunday overnight or maybe Monday morning,” he said.
“It looks like the winds are going to swing back around from the north and northwest.”
Weather-wise the weekend looks like a mixed bag. It starts off with a sunny and pleasant Saturday, but a system is expected to move in early Sunday, bringing sporadic showers and scattered thunderstorms with it.
“Looks like everyone will get something — a shower or a storm — and some spots could see 20 to 30 mm if they catch multiple storms,” said Luke.
“Rainfall amounts will vary, with most areas likely receiving five to 10 mm.”
Monday’s forecast is still unsettled, but continued showers and — depending on wind direction — the possible return of wildfire smoke.
“People should definitely take advantage of Friday and Saturday,” said Luke.
“If you've been putting off outdoor work or planning something outside, this is the time to do it.”