Manitoba motorists are reminded to drive to road conditions with reports of a winter storm approaching in coming days.
Most of the heavy snow will be north of Hwy 16, so if you plan on travelling, here’s those details.
Heavy snow will continue over parts of the Manitoba Parklands tonight and Thursday.
An area of low pressure that stretches from Saskatchewan to the US Midwest continues to push snow into southern Manitoba tonight.
Total snowfall accumulations will vary widely and will be tied to the local geography. Most areas will see snowfall accumulations of 10 to 25 cm by the end of Thursday. Areas along the Manitoba escarpment will see the highest amounts with local accumulations of 40 cm possible.
The snowfall will ease Thursday night as the low pressure system in the US moves into Ontario.
Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. If you must travel, keep others informed of your schedule and destination and carry an emergency kit and mobile phone.
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, Environment Canada forecasts periods of light snow. Wind northeast 20 km/h gusting to 40 becoming light early this evening. Low minus 1. Wind chill minus 7 overnight.
Remembrance Day will be snowy. Local blowing snow late in the afternoon. Amount 5 to 10 cm. Wind north 30 km/h gusting to 50. Temperature steady near minus 1. Wind chill minus 9 in the afternoon.
Thursday night will see snow and blowing snow.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to MBstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #MBStorm.
Safety Tips
· Before you head out on the highway, check for road and weather conditions by calling 511.
· Be cautious in traveling on overpasses and bridges. The surfaces on these structures can freeze quickly due to no ground insulation.
· Don’t rush. Give yourself five or 10 extra minutes to get to your destination safely.
· See where you’re going. At this time of year, keeping windshields clear is essential so make sure winter windshield washer fluid is topped up and windows are clear of snow and ice.
· Allow more time to stop. Traction is reduced when roads are slippery it takes more time to come to a complete stop. If you don’t have winter tires, it’s not too late to get them.
· Leave more space. Don’t tailgate at any time and remember that following distance should be increased when travelling at higher speeds or in poor visibility.
