Heat warnings blanket Prairies as renewed severe storm risk builds
Friday will see high heat and humidity fuel a renewed risk for severe thunderstorms across parts of the Prairies.
Friday will feel downright toasty across much of the Prairies as another day of heat and humidity build across the region. Daytime highs will climb into the 30s for communities from southern Alberta to the Interlake Region, with some spots pushing into the mid-30s. The warmth will fuel a renewed chance for severe storms later in the day. More on what to expect Friday and into the weekend, below.
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Friday: Temperatures climb, severe storm threat builds
The heat returns Friday after a brief break on Thursday. Hot high temperatures and elevated humidity will make this midsummer afternoon live up to its potential.
With the heat and humidity comes a risk for severe thunderstorms. Friday’s severe risk will focus mostly on Saskatchewan, with all the major population centres there seeing the risk for supercell thunderstorms that could produce strong wind gusts and large hail.
Despite the heat, though, conditions will remain relatively agreeable across the Prairies for much of the day on Friday. It’s not until later in the day that a risk for thunderstorms will build across the region.
Heat warnings issued as temperatures soar alongside humidity
Heat warnings will continue into the weekend for portions of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, including the cities of Calgary, Saskatoon, and Regina.
Saturday's highs will climb into the 30s from southern Alberta eastward into Manitoba, with the highest heat building over Saskatchewan.
Saskatoon is on track to crack 35°C on Saturday afternoon, with the air feeling closer to 40 when you factor in the humidity. Regina could see a high of 34°C, with Winnipeg following behind with a relatively chilly 31°C.
Residents of and visitors to the warned regions are advised to take the following precautions to protect themselves, their families and their neighbours:
Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
Take frequent breaks from the heat, spending time in cooled indoor spaces where possible.
Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
Check for your children or pets before you exit your vehicle. Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle, for any length of time.
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Be sure to check back for the latest updates on the heat and storm threat on the Prairies.