On February 1, 2025, Saskatoon is bracing for the impacts of the winter storm, as prognosticator Jeff Woodward has revived his forecasts after taking a year off. This year, Woodward’s predictions indicate above-average precipitation from January to March accompanied by colder temperatures projected from April to June.
Known for his unique methodology, Woodward analyzes pig spleens to assess future weather patterns, continuing the tradition once held by his late uncle Gus Wickstrom, who was renowned for the same practices for decades. Conducting these predictions mid-winter can sound peculiar, but the tradition has deep roots going back to pagan rituals in old Sweden.
"Apparently, Environment Canada, in its infinite wisdom, now thinks the best way to predict Saskatchewan’s weather is out of Edmonton because nothing says accurate like being several hours and another province away," Woodward joked, addressing the criticism often directed at governmental meteorological predictions.
Woodward conducted his assessment at the Collier farm south of Gull Lake using spleens collected from multiple locations around Tompkins, ensuring his analysis was valid and representative. The pig spleens—divided to signify months—showed substantial fat deposits signaling the likelihood of wetter and colder months.
Specific dates of interest include February 9 and February 15, when Woodward predicts notable rain and snow events. He asserts, "With the above-average snowfall during the first part of the winter, the province should be prepared for some localized flooding when there is rapid warming in the spring." The projections imply residents should prepare for significant seasonal variations.
Further elaboration on March shows expectations of average weather; nevertheless, based on trends, it may feel persistently colder than usual. "A lot of water is still needed to turn the dry conditions around, but this winter will definitely help," Woodward commented, indicating optimism for improved conditions moving forward.
April will see the weather continue its erratic nature, getting progressively colder with anticipated rainfall on the 20th and 28th, providing much-needed moisture as farmers prepare for the spring seeding. May, on the other hand, is hinted to stay cool until the 10th, flipping the script from winter’s grasp to warmer conditions.
Yet, the humor persists through all of this, as Woodward quips, "You are beter off to trust Saskatchewan pigs, the window, and luck for your short-term weather forecasts," emphasizing the unpredictable nature of weather forecasting.
This year’s remarkable methodology, alongside traditional practices, serves as both engagement to the Saskatoon community and as a uniquely regional form of humor about harsh winters, all the enquanto customers await the impacts of this imminent winter storm.