Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure is advising Manitobans to take precautions and prepare for a major spring blizzard expected to impact southern and central Manitoba starting today.

Environment Canada has issued storm advisories for the cities of Winnipeg and Brandon and much of southern and central Manitoba. Snow is expected to start this afternoon near the international border and spread north throughout the night. The snow accumulation is expected to last until Friday with heaviest snowfalls forecast for Wednesday and Thursday. This heavy snowstorm is expected to be accompanied by strong northerly winds gusting 50 to 70 kilometres per hour from Tuesday afternoon to midday Friday. Widespread snowfall accumulations of 30 to 50 centimetres (cm) are expected for much of central and southern Manitoba by Friday morning with possible accumulations approaching 80 cm in some localized areas.

Power outages can occur during blizzards and Manitobans are encouraged to prepare basic emergency kits with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight. More information is available at https://www.manitoba.ca/emo/prepare/kit.html#basic.

The Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) continues to work with all local authorities and emergency management partners to provide guidance and support for both preparatory and response activities throughout this weather system.

EMO’s Manitoba Emergency Coordination Centre will activate to Level 2 on April 12 to ensure effective co-ordination of the provincial response and to provide local authorities support and the most up-to-date information.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure continues to monitor highway conditions and is prepared to deploy the province’s heavy equipment fleet, which includes approximately 340 truck plows, de-icing equipment and motor graders.

However, highway closures are expected and Manitobans with Easter weekend travel plans are advised to stay home. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow and surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.

The province recommends the following road safety tips:

  • check the weather forecast and driving conditions before travelling;
  • delay or cancel your trip if travel is not recommended;
  • ensure your vehicle is in good winter driving condition;
  • completely clear all windows, mirrors and lights of snow and ice;
  • warm up your vehicle to prevent window fogging;
  • allow extra time for travelling;
  • carry a winter emergency car kit;
  • if conditions worsen while driving, turn back or find a safe place to stop until the weather eases; and
  • advise people of your departure, approximate travel time and the route you are taking.

More information about driving in winter conditions is available at gov.mb.ca.

Those choosing to travel are advised to check Manitoba 511 for current road conditions prior to making the decision. While 511 is updated regularly by the provincial road patrol, conditions can change in a matter of minutes.