Contrasting air masses dominates the Prairies this weekend
The temperature difference between regions in the north and those in the south will likely be greater than 20 degrees
This will be a unique weekend weather-wise across the Prairies as there will be two different air masses taking stage in different parts of the region.
Abnormally cold Arctic air will push down from northern Canada, while Pacific air attempts to flush across sections of the Prairies. In fact, some parts of the Prairies are poised to experience their warmest temperatures of 2020.
Starting with a provincial look, Saturday afternoon has an almost comical difference in temperatures across Alberta. Temperatures in the northwest corner of the province are set to feature temperatures 10 to 15 degrees below normal, while areas south of Calgary will climb up to about 2-3 degrees above normal.
The warmest air is set to move into Saskatchewan by Sunday, with the possibility to send temperatures well into the double digits – perhaps as warm as 15°C. Without a doubt, this will be the warmest temperatures of 2020 for parts of the province.
There are some conflicting signals with long-range modelling, but it does appears that warmer temperatures will win out for the first half of next week, especially for southern sections of the Prairies, but it appears that a cooldown is coming for the end of the week.
For those looking to safely spend some time outside, these temperatures are a much-needed breath of fresh air.
