Thundersnow: weather pattern brings uncommon phenomenon to Saskatchewan

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“It’s unusual in that we don’t see it all the time, but this is an unusual system,” Lang said. “So I’m not surprised.”

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In simple terms, thundersnow is what happens when a thunderstorm forms in cold enough conditions to produce snow instead of rain. That requires a powerful mix of ingredients, which Lang said this storm has delivered.

“The only thing that you need to get lightning is a lot of instability and a lot of ice crystals smacking against each other,” Lang explained.

That instability of warm air rising quickly into colder air creates the electrical charge needed for lightning. At the same time, temperatures remain cold enough for precipitation to fall as snow.

It’s a rare combination. In fact, less than one per cent of snowstorms produce thunder and lightning.

Lightning is far more common in summer because air rises higher and more easily. In winter storms, snow particles typically don’t get lifted high enough to generate that charge.

“That just tells you how much instability and how much dynamics and energy there is to this particular storm,” Lang said.

The storm is bringing significant snowfall to northern Saskatchewan and while thundersnow can be striking to watch, it’s also a sign of a highly energetic and potentially hazardous storm. Heavy snowfall, reduced visibility and rapidly changing conditions can make travel difficult.

Weather experts say if you hear thunder during a snowstorm, it’s a reminder that the system overhead is stronger than most. It’s also a rare Prairie moment adding to what’s becoming a memorable spring for wacky weather.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com