Major Spring Storm Set to Hit Prairies with Snow, Ice, Rain and Strong Winds

A powerful spring storm system is expected to sweep across the Prairies over the coming days, bringing a wide range of hazardous weather.

The storm is forecast to deliver heavy snow across central and northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with total accumulations ranging from 30 to 50 centimetres in some areas, particularly from The Pas northward toward Lynn Lake, Brochet and Wollaston Lake. Nearby areas could see between 20 and 30 centimetres, while parts of northeastern Alberta and northwestern Saskatchewan may receive between 15 and 40 centimetres.

Central Saskatchewan is expected to see a mix of precipitation types, including snow, rain and freezing rain, prompting a winter storm warning due to the combination of hazards.

Freezing rain is also expected to create dangerous conditions across parts of central Manitoba, with ice accumulations of 5 to 10 millimetres possible.

Further west, heavy snow is forecast in the Rocky Mountains, particularly near Waterton Park, where terrain could enhance snowfall totals.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is developing across eastern Alberta and west-central Saskatchewan, with up to 30 millimetres expected. Additional rainfall of 20 to 30 millimetres is forecast across parts of Manitoba later this week.

As colder air moves into the system, a transition from rain to snow is expected across central and southern Saskatchewan, with another 10 to 15 centimetres possible.

Strong winds are also a concern, particularly in southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan, where gusts could reach up to 90 km/h.

In southern Manitoba, conditions may also support thunderstorms, with a risk of hail and heavy rain. Some storms could approach severe limits, especially Wednesday evening and again Thursday, depending on how the system develops.

The low-pressure system is expected to linger into the weekend, bringing continued flurries and accumulating snow to parts of Saskatchewan and northern Manitoba, along with below-seasonal temperatures heading into next week.

Forecast confidence:

Medium

Impact scale:

High