Several communities in southern Saskatchewan broke long-standing temperature records this week, according to Environment Canada. Nine communities reportedly set single day temperature records on May 26, while eight communities broke records on May 27. They include: May 26 Assiniboia Area New record of 34.1 C, surpassing the old record of 31.7 set in 2018. Coronach Area New record of 35.5 C, surpassing the old record of 33.9 set in 1969. Eastend Area New record of 32.4 C, surpassing the old record of 29.4 set in 1934. Elbow Area New record of 32.2 C, surpassing the old record of 30.0 set in 1966. Kindersley Area New record of 33.4 C, surpassing the old record of 32.2 set in 1966. Lloydminster Area New record of 30.4 C, surpassing the old record of 29.3 set in 1986. Lucky Lake Area New record of 32.5 C, surpassing the old record of 31.1 set in 2018. Maple Creek Area New record of 34.1 C, surpassing the old record of 33.3 set in 1936. Rockglen Area New record of 34.3 C, surpassing the old record of 29.4 set in 2018. May 27 Assiniboia Area New record of 33.9 C, surpassing the old record of 30.5 C set in 1988. Broadview Area New record of 29.8 C, surpassing the old record of 28.9 set in 1986. Elbow Area New record of 33.7 C, surpassing the old record of 31.1 set in 1971. Last Mountain Lake New record of 29.9 C, surpassing the old record of 29.0 set in 1988. Lucky Lake Area New record of 33.4 C, surpassing the old record of 28.0 set in 1979. Rockglen Area New record of 32.2 C, surpassing the old record of 28.3 set in 1971. Watrous Area New record of 32.3 C, surpassing the old record of 30.5 set in 1986. Weyburn Area New record of 34.3 C, surpassing old record of 30.0 set in 1969. The heatwave sweeping through the prairies is expected to peak Thursday. An Orange Level Heat Warning is in effect in parts of Saskatchewan, with temperatures expected to reach the high 30’s in some areas. Cooler conditions are expected by Saturday in some areas. Those heading outdoors are being advised to plan ahead, drink plenty of water, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion. Hot and dry conditions also mean a higher risk for wildfires, with much of Saskatchewan under an “extreme fire risk.” Almost two dozen communities have fire bans in place. Fire crews are currently fighting four fires in the province. There have been 68 wildfires in Saskatchewan so far this season - much lower than the more than 200 reported by this time last year.
