Expect reprieve from dry conditions in N.W.T., says meteorologist

It hasbeen significantly sunny, warmand dry in the Northwest Territoriesand a lot ofthe western portion ofCanada but expect a reprieve, says an expert.

"You'll likely start to see some cooler air, maybe some showery weather moving in, by about your Monday and Tuesday," CBC Saskatchewanmeteorologist Christy Climenhagasaid from Regina.

The jet stream flowing from west to east has been pushed further north over the west, said Climenhaga.

That is keeping lower temperatures and most precipitation out of the region, she said, leaving warm and dry conditions for most and elevating the fire risk.

Wildfires have reportedlydestroyed homes in Alberta and caused the closureof major road link to the territory earlier this week.

"Is it normal to be drier than normal every summer? Of course not, but especially over the last couple of summers we have been seeing consistent drought conditions," said Climenhaga.

It has been particularly dry in the territory's South Slave region, including during the winter.

In May, Hay River reached about half of where it should have been precipitation level-wise, Climenhaga said.