‘Bitterly cold air’ about to hit Saskatchewan, Environment Canada says

After a few days of snowfall, along with windy conditions, it’s not about to get any better for Saskatchewan.

Environment Canada meteorologist Dan Fulton said cold air will hit the province when the snowfall rolls out of Saskatchewan.

“We’ve got a ridge of high pressure that’s building into the province from Alberta, and that will bring some bitterly cold air.”

Snowfall in Saskatoon and central Saskatchewan is expected to “ease up” Sunday afternoon, with the temperature falling to – 21 C. In Regina and southern Saskatchewan, the snowfall is expected to end Monday, with the daily high sitting at – 19 C.

As the week continues, Fulton said the temperatures will gradually get colder.

“We’re looking at high’s of around (- 27 C and – 28 C for Saskatoon) for Tuesday (and) Wednesday. So, pretty bitterly cold conditions as we move into the first half of next week,” Fulton said.

In Regina, high’s of – 25 C are expected for Tuesday and Wednesday. Overnight low’s of – 32 C and – 29 C are expected Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.

Fulton reminded drivers to be ready for the cold temperatures.

“If you’re planning a longer trip, make sure you have an emergency kit in your car. (You) have to be able to keep warm, and stay hydrated if you happen to be stranded,” he said.

Snowfall around Saskatchewan from Friday to Sunday morning were “quite varied,” Fulton said, but the overall average sat around five centimeters, or around two inches, across the province.

Saskatoon declares snow event

Five centimetres was enough for the City of Saskatoon to call a snow event.

Graders and plows were sent out Sunday morning on priority streets.

Streets including 8th Street, Idylwyld Drive, 22nd Street and College Drive are active with roughly 22 graders. Ten sanders are out applying salt and sand on intersections, bridges other high traffic streets.

The city is advising that many freeway ramps, bridge decks and overpasses may be icy with packed snow. Caution, and slow speeds for machinery is being requested.

Drivers can report icy locations to the customer care centre at 306-975-2476.