The Weather Network is striking a more optimistic tone for Western Canada in terms of spring moisture.
According to a seasonal outlook released last week, no part of Canada is slated for below normal precipitation this spring (see map below) – good news for drought-plagued areas. However, the forecaster did warn a dry spring is expected south of the US border – impacting much of western North Dakota – meaning it is possible for the dryness to spread north.
“At this point, however, we expect that the Prairies will head into the new growing season in better condition than last year,” the forecast said.
In fact, the Weather Network said parts of Manitoba could even be prone to flooding this spring, given the amount of snow that has fallen in the province and especially if there a significant warm spell before the snow melts.
As for Ontario, things could be soggy this spring. An active storm track and a few moisture-laden systems are forecast to bring above-normal precipitation to the region, the forecast said.
“As a result, we are concerned about the potential for a delay in the start of the planting season as fields could initially be too wet for heavy equipment.”
A volatile temperature pattern should result in most of Canada seeing temperatures that are near normal or on the cold side of normal for the season. The coldest weather relative to normal is expected across western and northwestern Canada and also across northeastern parts of the country.
A previously released seasonal forecast from AccuWeather suggested more dryness this spring across the southern Prairies but agreed on the likelihood of wetter conditions for Ontario.
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