“Unseasonably Warm and Dry: What This Unique September Means for Saskatchewan Residents” | CBC News

Saskatchewan experienced an unusually warm September, with temperatures even surpassing some June averages. Environment and Climate Change Canada reported that areas like Regina, Moose Jaw, and Swift Current registered higher daytime highs in September than in June.

Danielle Desjardins, a meteorologist, noted that all weather stations in Saskatchewan reported above-normal temperatures. “That’s pretty noteworthy,” she said. “Every single station we track ended up substantially above normal.” In Regina, the average temperature for September was 15.9°C, compared to a cooler 15.7°C in June. Moose Jaw had similar figures, with averages of 15.9°C in June and 16.2°C in September.

What’s fascinating is that Swift Current recorded its driest September in 140 years, with just 0.2 mm of rain compared to an average of 40.6 mm. Other areas, like Key Lake and Saskatoon, also saw below-average rainfall. Saskatoon received only 14% of its normal precipitation, while Prince Albert got 26%.

Desjardins explained that a persistent high-pressure system brought hot, dry air across the province. “Thunderstorms were localized, leading to variability in summer rainfall,” she remarked. While dry conditions can aid during harvest, they pose risks for soil moisture and agriculture.

Recent data paint a concerning picture. The dry heat in September raises wildfire risks, especially following a tough fire season earlier this year. Desjardins emphasized the need for awareness: “Hot, dry, and windy conditions contribute to wildfire ignition and spread.”

Whether this month’s weather is a temporary anomaly or part of a longer-term trend remains to be seen. The stark deviations in temperatures and rainfall highlight important insights into Saskatchewan’s climate and possible future impacts on agriculture and safety.

For the latest climate data and insights, you can visit Environment and Climate Change Canada here.

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