Wildfire fights in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario get a wintry assist
Wildfires and snow? Ongoing wildfires in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario are getting a wet, chilly, and even snowy help from Mother Nature this weekend.
From an early-season heat wave, which triggered an explosive start to wildfire season, to stormy weather and significant rainfall, Manitoba and northwestern Ontario have certainly seen it all over the past week.
On top of that, two tornadoes were confirmed to have occurred on May 15.
Now, as temperatures rapidly cool down, forecasters are looking at the chance for snow in the aforementioned regions.
Stay up-to-date on Canada's wildfire season by visiting The Weather Network's wildfire hub
Temperatures are forecast to drop drastically on Saturday, going from seasonal to near-freezing, thanks to being on the cold side of a low-pressure system over the Great Lakes. Some areas may also see the thermometer drop below the freezing mark—especially in higher elevations.
With the freezing temperatures will also come a late-season round of freezing weather.
Snow is forecast Sunday in northwestern Ontario from Kenora to Thunder Bay. While accumulations won't be significant, as the snow will likely melt on contact, drivers travelling on the highways should use caution; most drivers have likely already made the switch to summer tires.
This quick burst of winter comes amid a growing wildfire crisis in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, with several out-of-control wildfires leaving many people on evacuation alerts as the blazes come close to rural communities and camps.
Luckily, the cooler temperatures and precipitation should help firefighters to contain the wildfires.
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As of May 16, there are 10 wildfires currently burning in northwestern Ontario, five of which are out of control, according to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
In Manitoba, there are 16 active wildfires as of May 16, according to the Province of Manitoba.
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Stay with The Weather Network for more information and updates on your weather across Manitoba and northwestern Ontario.