A big winter storm is expected this weekend in Saskatoon, that will likely be in two waves.

Terri Lang from Environment Canada says the first wave will begin Saturday morning and move through most of the day with about 5 to 10 centimetres of snowfall.

On Sunday heavier snowfall is forecasted to move in, covering a large area of southern Saskatchewan. She says the line from very heavy snow and not as much snow, will be sitting very close to Saskatoon. Lang adds if the weather models decide to move, it will affect how much snowfall will hit the city and expects heavier snow throughout the day Sunday, tappering off Sunday night into Monday. Lang predicts about 20-30 centimeters of snow throughout the weekend but says there could be more depending on the weather patterns. Strong winds are expected on Sunday gusting from 50 to 70 kilometers per hour, causing reduced visibility in the city and on the highways.

Goran Saric, director of roadways, fleet and support for the city of Saskatoon says city crews are on stand-by and are prepared to begin cleaning and de-icing as soon as needed. He says during the snowfall efforts will be focused on the busiest streets (Circle, College and Idylwyld Drive, 8th and 22nd Street as well as bridges, overpasses and ramps) and access for emergency services. Saric says the response will include as many as 200 city workers dispersed within the city limits. The city says 15 graders, 10 plow with sanders, 4 underbelly plows, 20 sanders, 11 sidewalk plows and a number of loaders, dozers and snow blowers will be operational. Saric explains additional contractor assistance will be activated immediately as needed. Saric adds that the aim will be to have all primary sidewalks cleared 24 to 48 hours from snowfall. Saric recommends people clear their own sidewalks as soon as possible, avoid travelling and if you need to be out on the streets this weekend, to give city crews space and patience.

Emergency Management Organization, Director Pamela Goulden-McLeod, says everyone should have a 3 day supply of what your family needs at hand. She says things like food, water, medical requirements and necessities for pets are great things to have but also a list of who your emergency and social contacts are. Goulden McLeod recommends grocery shopping before Saturday to limit the amount of people on the roads this weekend. She says there is a possibility that power disruptions could occur due to wet heavy snow, but Saskatoon Light and Power staff are ready to respond as needed. As are Saskatoon Parks personal, in the case that heavy snow takes down a tree branch. She recommends residents report power outages, fallen tress or icy road patches to 306-975-2476. Goulden-McLeod also recommends transit riders check the transit app as delays are expected. She says to remember to check on your neighbours this weekend, especially any of the close to 300 residents who are self-isolating due to COVID-19.