We really can’t complain about the past winter we’ve had….yet we’re probably going to complain about the winter because we’re Canadian and we love talking about the weather. Despite complaining about winter temperatures, we love to brag about how cold it gets to others who come from (or live in) warm countries, even though they’ve probably heard the same stories 200 times before. We’re all guilty of it.
When I hear someone complain about snow in April, I always ask “why?” It’s not uncommon to get one last big blast of winter in April, especially in Saskatchewan. When I was growing up on the farm we always knew inclement April weather was approaching because we’d always have several new calves born in the pasture. We always had to be extra vigilant in those times to make sure the calves were in a warm, sheltered place with mama while a mixture of snow and rain would be raging outside. We never knew why an onslaught of calves arrived before, or during, a March or April winter storm, but it happened every time. Was it Mother Nature in action or just a coincidence?
Today, an April winter storm is going to sweep across parts of Saskatchewan dumping up to 30cm of snow in some parts. The Hudson Bay, Porcupine Plain, Melfort, Tisdale, Nipawin, Carrot River, La Ronge, and Prince Albert National Park regions are all under a snowfall warning. 15 to 25cm of snow is possible with this system sweeping across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Some areas may see up to 30cm by the time it’s all said and done. According to weather experts from Environment Canada, the bulk of the snow will fall today (Wednesday), into Thursday, before ending on Friday.
Areas outside of the snowfall warning may see a little bit of snow and much needed rain. It’s no secret that Saskatchewan fields and pastures are dry, making this April storm a welcome sight for drought weary farmers and ranchers. While some may complain about the “never ending winter,” we have to remember that the snow in April never lasts long and is often full of moisture to green-up the lawns, give the trees a big drink, and add soften up that soil for seeding.
And, at the very least, it’s a good day for a grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of soup.
