Heavy snowfall has fallen across areas of the province and motorists are reminded to adjust their driving for winter road conditions and to remain alert when following or approaching oncoming highway snowplows.
“Snowfalls in Manitoba can be challenging as travelers need to adapt their driving habits to wet and snow-covered roadway conditions,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk. “The province’s snow removal crews are surveying conditions in preparation to deploy equipment and clear highways. We urge all motorists to practise safe driving measures to ensure the safety of everyone on our roads.”
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure is responsible for maintaining the 19,000-kilometre highway system to provide safe and timely travel across the province throughout winter. All provincial highways are inspected regularly during winter to determine if action is needed and provide current information on road conditions for motorists. Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure monitors weather forecasts and plans its operations with a fleet of approximately 340 truck plows, de-icing equipment and motor graders.
All equipment operates with flashing blue warning lights and drivers should stay well back of removal crews, noted Piwniuk. Motorists should not attempt to pass a snowplow at any time while it is in operation and should slow down when passing approaching snowplows.
Travelers should always check manitoba511.ca for current road conditions prior to making the decision to travel. 511 is updated regularly by road patrols, but conditions can change in a matter of minutes.
