Although still uneven, precipitation was more typical across most Western Canada in April. And further improvement is expected following good amounts of rain and snow in many areas this week.
As shown on the map below, many areas saw significant accumulations this past month, including much of southern Manitoba and a narrow band extending straight east from about Calgary through into east-central Saskatchewan. On the other hand, a large area of south-central Saskatchewan remained drier than normal.
Meanwhile, a multi-day system was delivering more relief this week, with reports indicating just under one inch for many Prairie areas, along with some pockets where up to 2 inches or more fell. Additional significant precipitation is expected in portions of Western Canada this weekend and through into the middle part of next week. Although likely to delay planting in many parts of the Prairies, the moisture is helping to further tamp down the multi-year drought.
A report from World Weather today said many areas in Alberta and Saskatchewan will get enough precipitation to saturate the topsoil and “set the stage for a much better start to the growing season relative to recent past years.” In fact, the main concern for the Prairies in the coming weeks will be the need for drier and warmer weather to support aggressive planting, the report said.
The bottom line, however, is the wet weather is boosting Prairie production potentials – even if much more moisture is still needed in the driest areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan, World Weather said.
The latest monthly update of the Canadian drought monitor is likely to be released sometime next week.
