Winter storm with up to 20 cm of snow headed to Sask. on Thursday

Don’t put away those snow shovels just yet.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special weather statement on Tuesday warning that a winter storm was headed to Saskatchewan.

The storm, expected to begin early Thursday morning in western parts of the province and especially targeting the Yellowhead Highway corridor, will bring 10 to 20 cm of snow before it departs some time on Friday night.

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Environment Canada’s advisories, which cover the cities of Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert as well as a number of RMs, say the heaviest snowfall is forecast through Saskatoon and around Yorkton.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special weather statement on Tuesday warning that a winter storm was headed to Saskatchewan. (Environment and Climate Change Canada)

The weather agency also said strong easterly winds will also develop causing reduced visibility and poor driving conditions on highways.

Also Environment Canada said a band of freezing rain may also develop along the southern edge of the heavy snow from the Kindersley area and migrate eastward through Regina and into southeastern Saskatchewan by Thursday night.

It said the duration and amount of freezing rain is uncertain, but motorists should expect slippery and deteriorating travel conditions beginning Thursday through much of southern Saskatchewan.

Updated highway conditions can be seen on the Highway Hotline website.

Adjust driving habits to the weather

SGI says if people have to travel in snowy conditions they should drive with caution and adjusting their driving habits to suit the weather.

Drivers should:

• Reduce speed: Snow and ice increase stopping distances. Drive slower than usual and maintain a greater following distance.
• Brake and accelerate gradually: Sudden movements can lead to skidding. Ease into stops and starts, especially when approaching intersections or making turns.
• Use low beams in snow: High beams can reflect off snowflakes, reducing visibility. Low beams are more effective during snowfall.
• Beware of black ice: Invisible patches of ice are most common on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. Always approach these spots with caution.
• Stay in control on hills: When driving uphill, accelerate gently to avoid wheel spin. On descents, shift to a lower gear and brake lightly.

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• NDP’s Aleana Young cleared after conflict of interest investigation