After a small dose of snow last week, the first winter storm is hitting Saskatchewan, with an alert coming from Environment Canada. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW)

By battlefordsNOW and meadowlakeNOW Staff

Storm warning

Heavy snowfall coming to the Battlefords, Meadow Lake

Nov 15, 2021 | 3:22 PM

The first rough patch of the winter season is hitting northwest Saskatchewan.

A storm warning is in effect for the Battlefords, Meadow Lake, Lloydminster and others, with an expectation of strong southeast winds that could reach gusts of 50-60 km/h. This is part of a low pressure system moving in the region. Snowfall begins in the afternoon, with it increasing overnight in several communities, ending by Tuesday night.

Meadow Lake is predicated to start with light snow and potential freezing drizzle, before evening conditions bring heavier snowfall, sometimes blowing and a low of -4°C. Tuesday could see more than 10 cm of heavy snow amidst continued strong winds.

The Battlefords have a slightly warmer forecast, but are also predicated to have around 10 cm of snow hit the ground on Tuesday. A centimetre of snow this afternoon should be followed by freezing rain in the evening.

Deputy Chief Geoff Thompson for the Town of Battleford said highways had been cleared in the last few days, but they’re waiting to see how drivers fare with the storm on the way. Things had calmed over the weekend after a busy period, where they were extremely busy with semitrailer accidents.

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“Returning back to winter driving conditions, caution is definitely going to be needed to avoid accidents,” Thompson said.

While there were some highway issues, Thompson said community roads haven’t been especially troublesome.

“The town is keeping up with snow clearing and have been out today doing their due diligence in advance of the snow arriving,” he said.

Environment Canada is recommending that all non-essential travel is postponed until conditions improve, with visibility limited during heavy and blowing snow. Public Safety Canada is also encouraging everyone to have an emergency kit ready.

Thompson echoed the importance of preparedness, with emergency kits having items like warm clothing.

“Time to prepare, have your winter tires in place and your vehicle in good running order,” he added.

Follow updates on the winter storm at Environment Canada and Highway Hotline.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW