Incoming May snowfall could aid wildfire battles in Man., NW Ontario
Canada's largest ongoing wildfires could see some relief thanks to a burst of May snowfall over the long weekend
From an early-season heat wave, which triggered an explosive start to wildfire season, to stormy weather and significant rainfall, Manitoba and northwestern Ontario have certainly seen it all over the past week.
Now, as temperatures rapidly cool back down, forecasters are looking at the chance for snow in the region!
Stay up-to-date on Canada's wildfire season by visiting The Weather Network's wildfire hub
Temperatures are forecast to drop drastically on Saturday, going from seasonal to near-freezing, thanks to being on the cold side of a low-pressure system over the Great Lakes. Some areas may also see the thermometer drop below the freezing mark—especially in higher elevations.
With the freezing temperatures will also come a late-season round of freezing weather. We could see lingering rains in the area transition to a snowy mix on Saturday morning between Winnipeg and Dryden.
Heavier snow will be in store across northwestern Ontario on Sunday, between Kenora and Thunder Bay. While accumulations won't be significant, as the snow will likely melt on contact, drivers travelling on the highways should use caution; most drivers have likely already made the switch to summer tires.
This quick burst of winter comes amid a growing wildfire crisis in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, with several out-of-control wildfires leaving many people on evacuation alerts as the fires come close to rural communities and camps.
Luckily, the cooler temperatures and precipitation should help firefighters to contain the wildfires.
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As of Thursday evening, there are 14 wildfires currently burning in northwestern Ontario, seven of which are out of control, according to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
In Manitoba, there are 19 active wildfires as of May 14, three of which are reported to be out of control, according to the Province of Manitoba.
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Stay with The Weather Network for more information and updates on your weather across Manitoba and northwestern Ontario.