Key Takeaways:
- Hundreds of calls for service have been made to Saskatchewan and Manitoba RCMP due to blizzard conditions
- Dozens of collisions have occurred across the Prairies, with many roads closed, including sections of the Trans-Canada Highway
- Winter storm warnings have been forecast, with up to 30 centimetres of snow expected in some areas
- Arctic-like temperatures are expected, with wind chill values reaching -45 to -50 C in some regions
- Police are advising motorists to avoid road travel and stay home, with many schools and universities closed
Introduction to the Winter Storm
The winter storm that hit the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba on Wednesday has led to a significant increase in calls for service to the RCMP. The storm, which is expected to continue through the southern parts of the provinces on Thursday, has caused hazardous road conditions, resulting in dozens of collisions and stranded drivers. According to the Saskatchewan RCMP, between 4 p.m. Wednesday and 7 a.m. Thursday, they received 82 reports of vehicle collisions and 25 different weather/traffic-related reports. These reports included incidents of tractor-trailer units unable to drive up hills, icy roads that need to be sanded, and vehicles pulled over on the side of the road to let the weather pass.
Incidents and Collisions
The numbers reported by the Saskatchewan RCMP do not reflect possible vehicles stuck or abandoned, or collisions that officers may have come across while responding to other calls for service. In addition to the reports received by the Saskatchewan RCMP, Regina police also dealt with 24 collisions over the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, Manitoba RCMP received 11 reports of vehicle collisions and 20 stranded drivers overnight. The southern portion of the province has been particularly affected, with many roads closed, including sections of the Trans-Canada Highway and the Perimeter Highway surrounding Winnipeg. Winnipeg police have advised motorists to avoid road travel and stay home, and schools in many areas are closed, as are the University of Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba, and RRC Polytechnic.
Road Closures and Travel Advisories
The winter storm has resulted in significant disruptions to travel, with many roads closed or impassable. The Trans-Canada Highway, a major route that connects the provinces, has been closed in some areas, and the Perimeter Highway surrounding Winnipeg is also closed. Winnipeg police are advising motorists to avoid road travel and stay home, and schools in many areas are closed. The University of Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba, and RRC Polytechnic have also closed their campuses due to the weather. In Alberta, a major route saw a widespread pile-up and delay involving 80 to 100 cars, closing the Queen Elizabeth II Highway between Calgary and Airdrie for hours.
Weather Forecast
The winter storm is expected to move into north-central Ontario and Quebec on Thursday, with winter storm warnings forecasted. Up to 30 centimetres of snow is expected in some areas, with blowing snow and gusty winds. Across the northern regions of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario, Environment Canada is warning of Arctic-like temperatures, with the mercury dropping to roughly -45 to -50 C, with the wind chill. The strong Alberta Clipper that kept police busy in Alberta on Wednesday is expected to continue to cause hazardous road conditions, and motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling.
Conclusion
The winter storm that hit Saskatchewan and Manitoba has resulted in significant disruptions to travel and daily life. The RCMP and other emergency services have been busy responding to calls for service, and many roads have been closed or are impassable. Motorists are advised to avoid road travel and stay home, and schools and universities have been closed. The winter storm is expected to continue to cause hazardous conditions, and individuals are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe. With the storm expected to move into north-central Ontario and Quebec, residents in these areas should also be prepared for significant snowfall and hazardous road conditions.