A meteorologist believes the coming major spring storm is being called “historic” in Saskatchewan’s southeast corner.
Blizzard warnings are in effect in communities like Weyburn and Estevan, Carlyle, and Moosomin.
Between Tuesday night and Friday morning, snowfalls up to 50 centimetres are expected in this region.
It is expected that it will be accompanied with northerly winds gusts between 70-90 kilometres an hour, causing zero visibility at times.
Natalie Hasell, a meteorologist from Environment and Climate Change Canada said that the storm would arrive in the southeast province at midnight at the earliest and then quickly progress overnight.
“An average of two storms exceeding 30 centimetres have been observed in Saskatchewan since 1902, when Estevan was located. This is an average of every 59 years.
“So maybe it is appropriate that this storm be called ‘historic.’
Hasell stated that people need to be prepared in case help doesn’t arrive within three days.
“Avoid travel. Prepare an emergency kit for your car and your home. If you have to travel, be prepared for delays. She added that you should also be prepared for power outages.
Hasell stated that areas surrounding the regions with weather warnings are likely to experience seedifficulty conditions as well.
Jennifer Wilkinson, director of Engineering at the City of Weyburn said that workers have to reinstall winter-ready clothing in order to prepare for road maintenance as they brace for the storm.
She stated, “Growing-up in Saskatchewan, you just never really know what you’re going get.”
“That’s Saskatchewan’s unpredictable nature, is that you might think your in spring but it turns out you’re back in winter.”
Wilkinson stated that Weyburn will have all staff related to managing downed trees, blocked roads, or any other issues that may arise.
Wilkinson advised, “Stay home and hunker down, and enjoy the extra time with your family.”
You can also download the SaskAlert App. Residents are being urged by the provincial governmentSoutheast residents should ensure they have a 72 hour emergency kit. SaskAlert will relay alerts about weather conditions that could cause harm to life or safety.
The Saskatchewan RCMP urges drivers to be prepared and not to travel in a dangerous area. If you are unable to delay, police recommend that you have warm clothes, candles and matches in your vehicle. They also recommend that you have a snow shovel, traction pads, booster cables, and a tow rope.
Police advise you not to leave your vehicle if you are stranded. Also, ensure that snow or ice doesn’t block your tailpipe. This could cause carbon monoxide to escape your cabin.
