The first weekend of October is expected to bring intense fall conditions across the Prairies, as a strong low-pressure system moves in, bringing powerful wind gusts ranging from 70 to 100 km/h. The high winds are forecast to begin later this afternoon and will continue throughout Saturday, impacting large portions of Southern Saskatchewan and Southern Manitoba.
In Saskatchewan, gusts are expected to pick up strength through the evening and overnight, with the storm system stalling over the province by morning. Widespread gusts will reach, and in some areas exceed, 100 km/h, creating hazardous conditions for drivers, especially those operating transport trucks and trailers. These strong winds could also strip trees of their remaining leaves and cause damage to buildings, with the potential to loosen roof shingles and windows.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a wind warning for Southern Saskatchewan, urging residents to secure loose objects that may be tossed by the wind, which could cause injury or damage. The warning, issued at 8:19 PM CST on Friday, October 4, 2024, notes that sustained winds of 60 to 70 km/h with gusts as high as 100 km/h will be possible throughout Friday night into Saturday morning.
As the system pushes eastward into Manitoba by late Saturday morning, gusts of over 90 km/h are anticipated, particularly in the southwest corner of the province, with widespread wind impacts expected throughout Southern Manitoba.
Winds are forecast to ease by Saturday afternoon in Saskatchewan and later in the evening for Manitoba, but not before giving the Prairies a taste of the powerful storms that are typical as the fall season progresses. Temperatures are expected to drop slightly following this wind event, signalling a shift towards cooler autumn weather.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts and forecasts from Environment Canada. Severe weather reports can be sent via email to SKstorm@ec.gc.ca or by tweeting with the hashtag #SKStorm.