WSA forecasts below-normal spring runoff in southern Sask.

Southern Saskatchewan could see a large dropoff in the spring runoff compared to other years.

In its preliminary spring runoff outlook for 2021, the Water Security Agency (WSA) said most areas in southern Saskatchewan are expected to see snowmelt runoff potentials that are below or well below normal.

Northern areas, meanwhile, could get normal to above normal runoffs.

According to the WSA, a region including Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Yorkton, Weyburn and Estevan is expected to get a runoff that’s well below normal.

Areas around Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Melfort, La Ronge and Maple Creek are projected to get a below-normal runoff.

That’s a result of dry conditions last summer and fall and relatively low amounts of snow so far this winter.

In the far north, a wet fall and high lake and river levels are indications that area will get a runoff considered above normal.

Areas in central and northern Saskatchewan, as well as the southwest corner of the province, are expected to see a near-normal runoff.

“The spring runoff outlook could change as there is potentially another eight to 10 weeks of winter remaining,” the WSA said in a media release.

The first spring runoff forecast is to be issued in early March.