Southern Sask. warm spell creates hidden winter hazards

Warm Pacific air is bringing mild mid-January temperatures, drawing people outdoors, though icy sidewalks and roads remain a concern. Mick Favel has more.

Despite above-seasonal temperatures across southern Saskatchewan, officials are warning the freeze-thaw cycle is creating slippery and potentially dangerous conditions for people spending time outdoors.

Regina Fire & Protective Services deputy fire chief Gord Hewitt says crews have already responded to multiple calls involving slips and falls this year.

“We’ve responded to several incidents of people falling, which is why we continue to stress the importance of proper traction,” Hewitt said.

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As temperatures rise above freezing and then drop again, ice can quickly form on sidewalks, pathways and roads, making surfaces slick.

“It’s pretty icy in some areas,” said one person walking near Wascana Lake. “Some parts of the path are quite slippery. Having spikes on your shoes is a good thing.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) meteorologist Danielle Desjardins says the warm spell is being driven by an upper ridge of high pressure bringing Pacific air into the province.

“Temperatures are on the order of about 10 degrees above normal for this time of year,” Desjardins said. “It’s quite anomalous, but not unprecedented.”

The above-normal temperatures are expected to continue for several more days, with strong winds forecast to move into southern Saskatchewan later in the week.

With more people spending time outdoors, Hewitt is also urging parents to closely monitor children building snow forts, particularly those with roofs, as thawing snow can become unstable. He added that frozen bodies of water should be approached with caution during fluctuating temperatures.