Map: Above Normal Precipitation Widespread Across Prairies

Large areas of Western Canada have received well above normal precipitation over the past month, contributing to significant harvest delays and increasing concerns about crop quality. 

As shown on the map here, parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba have all received more than 200% of normal rainfall over the 30-day period ending Sept. 14. The most widespread excessive moisture was centred on Saskatchewan, where broad areas of the central and southern province received at least twice their normal precipitation. 

According to World Weather Inc., much of Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba and Alberta received more rain on Monday – enough to keep producers out of the fields for “several” more days in the wettest portions of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. 

Harvest remains well behind normal across the Prairies in general as producers battle the weather. The Saskatchewan harvest was reported at just 27% complete as of Sept. 7, compared with the five-year average of 58%. In Alberta, the harvest of major crops (spring wheat, oats, barley, canola, and peas) was 18% done as of Sept. 8, versus a five-year average of 40%. The Manitoba harvest was reported at 28% complete as of Sept. 8. 

The harvest delays and persistent rain have raised concerns about lodging, sprouting, and declining cereal quality.