Key Takeaways
- A winter storm is expected to hit southern Manitoba, bringing blizzard conditions to rural areas
- Temperatures are expected to plunge to -30 C, with strong winds and blowing snow making travel hazardous
- Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued warnings for cold weather in the north and winter storm conditions in the south
- The storm is expected to bring 10-15 cm of fresh snow, with gusts of up to 80 km/h
- The sharp turn in weather is not unusual, but the fluctuations in temperature and precipitation can be significant
Introduction to the Winter Storm
The stretch of warm weather in southern Manitoba is coming to an end, as a winter storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to rural areas. According to Terri Lang, a meteorologist from Environment and Climate Change Canada, "Winter isn’t letting go of its grip again," and the region can expect "really messy conditions." A cold front is expected to send Winnipeg’s temperature plunging to -15 C on Tuesday night, after a high of 6 C earlier in the day. This rapid temperature drop will cause the melted snow to freeze quickly, leading to hazardous road conditions.
Weather Forecast and Conditions
A second weather system will sweep through southern Manitoba on Wednesday, hitting Winnipeg in the afternoon. This system is expected to bring significant moisture, which will lead to blowing and drifting snow. Environment Canada is predicting 10-15 cm of fresh snow, with strong winds and gusts of up to 80 km/h. Lang warns that "tomorrow evening is gonna be really tricky for travelling," and advises people to exercise caution when venturing out. The federal agency has issued two warnings in Manitoba, including a cold weather warning in the north and a winter storm warning in the south.
Blizzard Conditions and Travel Disruptions
During the height of the storm on Wednesday, the outskirts of cities and rural areas in southern Manitoba could see blizzard conditions. This will lead to significant travel disruptions, and people are advised to plan their routes carefully. The winter storm yellow watch has been issued for a large swath of southern Manitoba, including Winnipeg, Brandon, Dauphin, and Portage la Prairie. Additionally, a cold warning has been issued for parts of northern Manitoba, where wind chills are expected to make temperatures feel as cold as -45 C.
Causes of the Sharp Weather Turn
The sharp turn in weather from unseasonable warmth to winter storm conditions is not unusual, according to Lang. The "juicy air" from the Pacific Ocean meets the cold air from the north, leading to significant fluctuations in temperature and precipitation. Lang explains that "sometimes, depending on how deep the cold air is, it’ll go south. But when it’s strong like this it’s making its way across and we do see these big fluctuations." While this type of weather pattern does not occur every winter, it is not uncommon, and this week’s forecast is a prime example.
Preparations and Warnings
Environment and Climate Change Canada is warning people to prepare for the winter storm, and to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Lang advises people to check the weather forecast regularly, and to plan their travel routes carefully. The federal agency will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary. With the storm expected to bring significant snowfall and strong winds, it is essential for people to be prepared and to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, people can minimize the risks associated with the winter storm and stay safe.