Thanksgiving snow warnings issued for parts of southern Saskatchewan
Environment Canada warns of up to 20 centimetres of heavy, wet snow in some areas, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Environment Canada has issued snowfall warnings and special weather statements for parts of southern Saskatchewan ahead of the Thanksgiving long weekend.
A snowfall warning is in effect for nearly 40 rural municipalities in the southwest and south-central regions, including Assiniboia, Shaunavon and Maple Creek.
"Latest indications continue to intensify this system, increasing the amount of snow forecast for the warned area," Environment Canada said.
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The agency said a low-pressure system developing over Montana will spread a band of heavier snow into southwest Saskatchewan, with 10 to 20 centimetres of heavy, wet snow anticipated.
Another special weather statement covers areas along the Trans-Canada Highway and south toward the international border, including portions of the west-central and southwest regions, where five to 10 centimetres of wet snow could accumulate.
"Precipitation will begin as rain later today [Oct. 11] but will become mixed with increasing snow through the night as temperatures drop back to 0 C," the forecast said.
Temperatures are expected to linger near freezing through Monday, with continued snowfall before it tapers off Monday night.
Jason Knight, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, said the Cypress Hills could see 10 to 15 centimetres over the highest elevations.
"We're looking at a fairly large amount of snow for the Cypress Hills ... not too unusual for the season, but we're looking at about 10 to 15 centimeters over the highest elevations in the park," he said.
Snow is also expected toward the east, including the grasslands, Assiniboia and Coronach.
Environment Canada warns that travel conditions could deteriorate quickly due to accumulating snow, sudden poor visibility and icy patches.
Motorists are advised to prepare for rapidly changing road conditions and to check Saskatchewan's Highway Hotline before travelling.
Forecasters caution that final snowfall amounts will be variable due to melting from milder ground temperatures and changes in precipitation type and intensity.
For communities such as Kyle, Saskatchewan Landing and Cabri, even modest snowfall accumulations could create slippery conditions.
Residents clearing accumulated snow are reminded to take frequent breaks, as heavy, wet snow can be physically demanding to remove.
The wintry conditions are not expected to last.
Environment Canada says skies should begin clearing Tuesday, with temperatures rebounding through the remainder of the week.
"In the wake of this, we'll be right back to the mid-teens. So anything by midweek, even by Wednesday ... anything that does fall, will be long gone," said Knight.
He added that Regina, Moose Jaw and surrounding areas may see mostly rain mixed with some snow on Monday.
Saskatoon could see flurries and a dusting of snow, while central areas like Meadow Lake may get a couple of centimetres.
Environment Canada continues to monitor the developing storm and says additional weather alerts could be issued.
Severe weather reports can be submitted by emailing [email protected], calling 1-800-239-0484 or posting on social media using #SKStorm.
With files from WestCentralOnline, CBC News and SwiftCurrentOnline