City crews prepared as heavy snow, blowing wind and slippery conditions forecasted

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts a severe weather system for Saskatoon beginning Wednesday. Precipitation is expected to start as rain, transitioning to freezing rain then changing to snow early Thursday morning.

Snowfall is expected to be heavy and rapidly accumulating throughout the day on Thursday, with total accumulation in the range of 15 to 20 cm. Most of the snowfall is predicted Thursday, tapering to lighter snow and flurries into Friday morning. Gusting winds of 70 to 80 km/h are expected to create blowing snow, drifting and widespread reduced visibility.

These conditions are likely to have a significant impact on travel. Icy surfaces beneath accumulating snow are possible and will reduce traction. Drivers will need longer stopping distances. Blowing snow and drifting may lead to sudden visibility changes, particularly on open roadways such as Circle or McOrmond Drive and other priority routes.

Residents should prepare for slower travel, rapidly changing road conditions and potential delays on both Thursday and Friday. Drivers are strongly encouraged to adjust to conditions, allow extra travel time, maintain a safe following distance and avoid unnecessary travel if conditions deteriorate.

Plows, graders and sanders will be on the roads during and after the snow falls. While the snow is falling crews focus on high-traffic routes such as Circle Drive, Idylwyld Drive, 22nd Street, 8th Street and College Drive to maintain safe and passable conditions. Operations will continue day and night as conditions evolve.

Drivers are reminded to watch for blue and amber flashing lights and to give snow removal equipment the space required to operate safely.

Operational planning will account for both the intensity of this storm and conditions following the event. Crews will balance immediate safety priorities with efficient use of resources to maintain safe driving conditions across the city.