A spring snowstorm that blanketed parts of Saskatchewan has weakened, but travel advisories remain in effect as hazardous road conditions persist. Environment and Climate Change Canada has lifted the snowfall warning, but the aftermath continues to pose dangers for drivers.
Snowfall Totals Across the Province
Saskatoon received between 22 and 25 centimetres of snow from the storm, which began Thursday night. Regina, located farther south, saw about five centimetres. Environment Canada meteorologist Shannon Moodie explained that Regina was south of the main snow band, which was focused more through central Saskatchewan. “They were luckily farther south and didn’t really get the worst from this system,” she said.
Prince Albert recorded 13 centimetres, while Meadow Lake reported 14 centimetres. However, snow depth on the ground was higher, with Meadow Lake reporting 25 centimetres and Prince Albert around 37 centimetres, Moodie noted.
Travel Advisories and Road Conditions
The Highway Hotline’s Saturday morning report indicated that routes near Prince Albert along Highway 3 and Highway 23 are under travel-not-recommended advisories due to ice and drifting snow. Similarly, travel is not recommended near Meadow Lake and Green Lake, where ice and drifting snow are present on Highway 55.
The Saskatoon Police Service reported responding to 52 collisions from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. Police urge motorists to reduce speeds, allow extra travel time, and increase following distances.
Spring Storm Not Unusual
Moodie noted that such spring storms are not uncommon. “We just have that war between the warm and cold air, and they can create very potent systems that do drop significant snowfall,” she added. Temperatures are expected to rise next week, offering relief from the wintry conditions.
