It's getting closer!

Today there is a slight risk of severe weather in the states of Montana and South Dakota, bringing the storm season a bit closer to Canada for 2006. Thursday makes for another big day to watch as a moderate risk has been issued for areas further south and east. Our storm prediction map will have to get back into operation very soon as the snow is nearly all gone here in Saskatoon. Some general thundershowers are possible today in extreme southern Alberta.

Tornado Numbers See Huge Increase

Monthly tornado statistics are a bit disturbing so far this year. After this past Sunday's numbers have been tabulated, the month of March claimed over 200 tornadoes. Is this due to more chasers, more media, or is the weather going bonkers. What are we to prepare for this summer in Canada? It is not uncommon to have one or two isolated but powerful storms in the month of April somewhere in Saskatchewan, but maybe this year we will see summer type action starting very early.

SPC Monthly Tornado Statistics

PDS ISSUED: Strong Tornadoes Possible Today

The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma today has issued a "PDS" or particularly dangerous situation. The Stormtrack.org forums are buzzing with activity and it looks like it is going to be a busy day for storms on the plains. So far only hail has been reported but shear is very strong and violent tornadoes are expected this afternoon in eastern Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and Missori.

"This is an extremely dangerous situation"

http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day1otlk.html

Weather on the Canadian prairies is mixed with a heavy snowfall warning in west-central Manitoba and warm temperatures for the rest of us.