A winter storm watch is in effect for the entire southern half of Saskatchewan as far north as Prince Albert all the way south to the U.S. border and west to east from the Alberta to Manitoba boundaries. Twenty centimetres of snow is expected on Saturday with more snow on Sunday combined with high winds which forecasters say may become a full-on blizzard. Modelling right now indicates the storm, could overall, bring 30 to 50 centimetres before it trails off on Sunday night.

A blizzard in 2007 stranded Saskatoon residents at Canadian Tire and Costco, shut down highways while buses and ambulances had to be pulled out. If you haven’t yet, you can sign up for NotifyNow, it is a mass notification system for Saskatoon residents which is activated when disaster strikes.

Medavie Health Services West is asking residents to be prepared for the upcoming snow. Medavie’s Troy Davies says every year they have a minimum of two to three cardiac arrests that occur as a result of shoveling. He says if you’re going to shovel, remember that it doesn’t have to be done all at once so take breaks, stretch before lifting snow, wear proper footwear and dress in layers. Davies also says they suggest anyone with cardiac history have a neighbour or relative shovel the walkways and driveways. And if you do end up shoveling, and experience any chest pain, stop immediately and call for help.