April temperature swings end in warm pattern for the west

Thursday, April 28, 2016, 10:30 AM - The last half of April has been a wild ride in the west, with record breaking heat followed by an abrupt return of wintry weather.

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The trend as we head into May looks a bit more consistent – with widespread early summer-like warmth set to return. Unfortunately that will also bring the return of dry conditions to the Prairies, contributing to the already active wildfire season.

Last week, thanks to a stubborn blocking pattern, we saw temperatures soar into record breaking territory across the west. Temperatures more characteristic of July than April were seen across BC, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Shortly afterwards, April showed why it has a reputation as a volatile month, as early this week temperatures plunged and parts of the Prairies picked up several centimetres of snow. The image above shows areas where accumulations were seen. Many westerners went from sandals to snow boots within the course of seven days.

As we move into May however, the upper level ridge returns. This will bring back the widespread warmth, but also the resumption of dry conditions. This will once again lead to increased wildfire risk, as well as negative impacts on the early agricultural season.

Watch more: Moose snacking while watching TV in Alberta after snowfall