Saskatchewan has seen 10 tornadoes in a single day this year, surpassing the rest of Canada combined, says the Northern Tornadoes Project.
Saskatchewan Faces Unprecedented Tornado Surge
Record Activity Confirmed by Tracking Project
Saskatchewan has experienced 17 tornadoes so far in 2025, outpacing all other Canadian provinces combined, according to data from the Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP), a national research initiative based at Western University in London, Ontario. The spike includes 10 tornadoes recorded in a single day—June 19—marking one of the most active days since the project began tracking in 2017.
Tornadoes Strike South and Central Regions
Locations and Ratings Detailed
The tornadoes primarily hit south and central areas between Estevan and Saskatoon. On June 19, two EF-2 tornadoes tore through Kronau and Frobisher, with three EF-1 twisters reported in South Touchwood, Hubbard, and Blackstrap Lake. Additional EF-0 tornadoes affected communities such as Young, Vibank, and Hirsch. Earlier and later events include EF-rated storms near Cut Knife on June 2 and Stockholm on June 29.
Uncommon Outbreaks Spark Concern
Meteorological Factors at Play
David Sills, NTP Director, noted that 12 of the 17 tornadoes occurred within a three-day window from June 19 to 21. He attributes the outbreak to a combination of extreme surface heat and the precise timing of weather fronts. “It’s a matter of timing and coincidence—peak heating and frontal collisions,” Sills said. Though uncommon, such outbreaks are not unheard of in prairie provinces.
Community Impact Felt on the Ground
Damage and Close Calls in Hubbard
In Hubbard, northeast of Regina, residents Kayla Chamberlin and Shawn Hanofski witnessed a tornado touch down in their yard. Their home sustained minor roof damage, but the surrounding farmland was hit harder—trees uprooted and equipment scattered. “You could hear things being smacked up against the house,” said Chamberlin. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported from any confirmed tornado in Canada this year.
Historical Comparison and Outlook
2025 Exceeds Tornado Trends
On average, Saskatchewan records 14 tornadoes per year. This year’s tally has already exceeded that mark—and it’s only July. For context, 2022 saw 26 tornadoes, while just one was reported in 2023. The rest of Canada has seen only 13 tornadoes this year: Alberta and Quebec with four each, Manitoba and Ontario with two, and British Columbia with one.
Experts Hope Peak Has Passed
Seasonal Shift May Reduce Threat
While June and July typically mark peak tornado season, activity usually drops off in August. “Hopefully we’ve seen the peak and we’ll tail off now,” Sills said. Nonetheless, experts urge residents to remain prepared and consider structural reinforcements, as shown in one case where special roof bracing likely prevented major home damage.
Summary
Saskatchewan is experiencing a record-setting tornado season, with more tornadoes than the rest of Canada combined. The surge has brought damage to rural areas but, thankfully, no loss of life. As the season wanes, researchers continue to monitor conditions closely.
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