A Special Weather Statement has been issued across much of central and southern Saskatchewan, including Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw.

Environment Canada says a clipper system will cross Saskatchewan Wednesday, resulting in widespread strong winds gusting to 80 km/h across the central and southern half of the province.

The strong winds will begin in the southwest Wednesday morning, expand eastward through the day, and generally continue into Thursday.

In addition, a mix of scattered rain showers, potential freezing rain, and some snow will accompany the system.

Amounts are generally expected to be low, but isolated snow squalls and banding could see local totals of 5 to 10 cm.

Wind gusts could also reach 100 km/h in localized areas.

The winds and lingering snow will both taper off late Thursday as the system finally departs the prairies.