Saskatchewan experienced unusually warm and dry conditions last month, with September temperatures surpassing those of June in some regions, as per data from Environment and Climate Change Canada. Regina, Moose Jaw, and Swift Current all saw higher average daytime temperatures in September compared to June, with every weather station in the province monitored by Environment Canada ranking September among the top 10 warmest on record.
Describing the situation as noteworthy, meteorologist Danielle Desjardins noted that all tracked stations in Saskatchewan recorded significantly above-normal temperatures in September. While June typically marks the beginning of summer heat, this year, it was September that brought the heat. In Regina, the average temperature for September was 15.9°C, notably higher than June’s slightly below-average 15.7°C. Moose Jaw experienced an average temperature of 15.9°C in June and 16.2°C in September.
Swift Current set a significant record by enduring its driest September in 140 years, with only 0.2 mm of rain compared to the average of 40.6 mm. Similarly, other areas such as Key Lake, La Ronge, Prince Albert, and Saskatoon also experienced well-below-average rainfall for September.
Attributing these fluctuations to a persistent upper-level ridge, Desjardins explained that the high-pressure system brought hot and dry air across the province in September. The earlier summer rainfall, particularly in August, was largely due to thunderstorms, which are more localized in effect unless influenced by extensive low-pressure systems.
While the dry conditions can aid in harvesting, they are concerning for soil moisture recovery and raise wildfire risks, especially following a severe fire season earlier in the year. Desjardins highlighted that hot, dry, and windy conditions in September have exacerbated the wildfire situation. Whether these conditions indicate long-term climate trends or were an anomaly, the data from September clearly shows significant deviations from normal conditions.
