Slushy, icy start to spring in Saskatchewan

While Mother Nature’s making up her mind about what season it is, most people in Saskatchewan were waking up to winter Saturday morning.

Environment Canada meteorologist Justin Shaer said Regina received about five centimetres of snow in the last 24 hours, while Saskatoon got about two and a half centimetres.

The south and southeast parts of the province received the heaviest snowfall — specifically around the Carlyle and Estevan areas.

However, Shaer doesn’t expect it to stick around.

“There are some pretty nice daytime highs coming up for the next few days, so — like with any sunshine — (the snow) should start melting away,” he said.

Shaer added those daytime highs will cool off by the end of next week, followed by warmer, spring-like temperatures.

As for Saturday night, Shaer forcasted a mix of freezing rain in the evening, which will turn to flurries by Sunday morning.

Snow, freezing rain make Sask. highways treacherous

Due to the fresh snowfall, coated by a sleek layer of freezing rain, the province’s Highway Hotline issued a number of travel advisories Saturday morning.

Stay off #1 this is at Pense @JessikaGuse pic.twitter.com/PEx08Vakfb

— jeremy smith (@jeremysmith650) March 24, 2018

On Highway 1 west, between Regina and Belle Plaine, two semis stuck in the ditch caused a road closure and traffic to be backed up for kilometres. That section of road has since been re-opened.

Drivers are encouraged to check the Highway Hotline before heading out on the roads.

City of Regina declares snow route, parking ban

The new blanket of snow has triggered the City of Regina to declare its snow routes in effect. That means any vehicles parked in an area with a blue, snowflake sign can be issued a parking ticket.

The snow route parking ban remains in effect until Sunday at 6 a.m.