Winter weather has struck Manitoba, with noticeable variations across the province. While blizzard warnings persist in the northern and central regions, the southeastern area is on alert for severe thunderstorms.
Blizzard Warnings in Northern Manitoba
On Thursday, Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a blizzard warning for northern Manitoba. Wind gusts between 70-80 km/h combined with blowing snow have resulted in dangerously low visibility. Accumulated snowfall is expected to reach 30-50 centimetres by Saturday.
- The warning area includes Thicket Portage, about 50 kilometres south of Thompson, and stretches north to the Nunavut border.
- Thompson, where La Voie du Nord school was closed, is also included in this alert.
- Churchill and the Hudson Bay region have not received any warnings.
Freezing Rain and Hazards in West-Central Manitoba
West-central Manitoba is currently under a winter storm warning. This area is anticipating 5-10 millimetres of freezing rain, followed by approximately 15 centimetres of snow.
- Communities affected include Flin Flon, Cranberry Portage, Sherridon, and Snow Lake.
- A separate freezing rain warning across central Manitoba stretches from The Pas to the Ontario border, with amounts possibly exceeding five millimetres.
Impact of Freezing Rain in Flin Flon
In Flin Flon, businesses and schools closed due to the severe weather. Ice pellets and freezing rain caused hazardous conditions on the roads, which were quickly covered again as plowing efforts were undertaken. Manitoba Highways announced several road closures due to poor conditions.
- Highway 391 from Lynn Lake to Leaf Rapids
- Highway 394 from Highway 391 to the Saskatchewan border
- Highway 396 from Lynn Lake to Fox Mine
Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Southeastern Manitoba
In a contrasting weather situation, southeastern Manitoba is under a severe thunderstorm watch. Issued Thursday afternoon, this watch warns of potential wind gusts up to 90 km/h, large hail, and heavy rainfall.
- The watch area includes communities near Lake Winnipeg, such as Lac du Bonnet, Dugald, and Oakbank.
- The system may also produce isolated tornadoes during the afternoon or evening.
Precautions and Safety Tips
Residents are advised to remain alert and prepared for severe weather, including potential flash flooding. Should threatening weather arise, it is recommended to seek shelter in a basement or secure interior room.
As winter continues to impact Manitoba, residents in affected regions must remain cautious and informed about shifting conditions and necessary safety measures.
