SOUTHERN SASKATCHEWAN — Several weather warnings are in place in southern Saskatchewan on Dec. 9 due to a powerful winter storm.
A freezing rain warning was issued early Dec. 9 for the city of Regina and communities within 79 RMs. According to Environment Canada, a low-pressure system from Alberta will bring a large swath of freezing rain to portions of southern Saskatchewan. The rain is expected to taper off by the afternoon. Roads and walkways will likely become icy and slippery.
Outlook, Regina, Estevan, Weyburn and Carlyle are among the communities affect.
A wind warning is also in effect for communities within 28 RMs. Estevan, Weyburn and Carlyle are again among the areas impacted. The warning states strong winds gusting to 90 kilometres per hour are expected in the afternoon of Dec. 9.
"There may also be some visibility concerns with these strong winds," the warning states.
Winds are expected to ease later in the evening. Environment Canada says damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible.
Finally, a flash freeze warning has been issued for parts of southwest Saskatchewan. Environment Canada says a rapid drop in temperatures will cause wet or slushy surfaces to suddenly freeze.
Temperatures are expected to fall from above freezing early in the morning of Dec. 9 to below freezing by the afternoon.
A snowfall warning is also in effect for the east-central portion of the province, including the Yorkton and Moosomin areas.
As of 7:30 a.m., according to Highway Hotline, winter conditions continue to make travel hazardous across several Saskatchewan highway districts.
All highways around Estevan are marked as closed due to ice.
In the Weyburn area, travel is not recommended north of Carlyle due to reduced visibility, ice, heavy and loose snow, and swirling snow. Conditions have slightly improved near Milestone, where the travel advisory has been lifted, though highways remain covered and icy.
In the Moose Jaw district, travel is not recommended on Highway 11 between Aylesbury and Davidson due to icy conditions. Advisories are also in place on Highway 2 from Assiniboia to the 15 Wing base access, and on Highway 36 between Highways 13 and 2, with both routes reporting significant ice.
In the Swift Current district, travel is not recommended in the Morse and Gravelbourg areas, where ice continues to create dangerous driving conditions.
Motorists are urged to check the Highway Hotline and avoid travel where advisories remain in effect.
