Winter storm on the way for northern Sask.

Northern Saskatchewan is battening down the hatches ahead of an expected spring snow storm.

A winter storm warning is in place for La Loche, Buffalo Narrows, La Ronge, Meadow Lake and Pelican Narrows.

Up to 35 cm of snow is expected in those regions starting Thursday night and into Friday, with wind gusts of 70 km/h.

There is also a snowfall warning in effect for the Battlefords and Lloydminster areas, with 20 cm of snow possible.

“You get this battleground between the cold arctic air and warm spring-like air and along the battle line is where you get the big storms,” Environment Canada’s John-Paul Craig said.

The storm is expected to spare Saskatoon and areas south of the city.

“The low-pressure system will pass directly over the cities,” Craig said. “Everything will be happening around us.”

However, heavy rain and freezing drizzle is expected by the city of Saskatoon, with crews standing by to deal with adverse road conditions for Friday evening.

The snow and rain is expected to taper off by Saturday.

—With files from 650 CKOM’s JT Marshall.