A convoy of snowplows makes its way southbound on Highway 75 on Wednesday, April 13, 2022. (CHRISD.CA FILE)
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure says provincial snow removal crews are prepared to respond to blizzard conditions expected across parts of southern Manitoba.
Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting heavy snowfall along the Trans-Canada Highway, including Brandon and Winnipeg, beginning this afternoon and continuing until midday Thursday. Some areas could receive 10 to 20 centimetres of snow, with strong winds causing blowing snow and reduced visibility, particularly in the Red River Valley. Freezing rain is also possible in southwestern Manitoba.
The province says it is monitoring conditions closely and is ready to deploy its fleet of 340 snow-clearing vehicles from 46 maintenance yards to maintain more than 19,000 kilometres of provincial highways.
Locally, the City of Winnipeg says it is also on standby and monitoring road conditions.
“[We] will continue applying sand and/or salt to improve roadway traction as required,” the city said. “We will make further snow-clearing decisions based on how much snow falls in the coming hours.
An annual winter route parking ban is in effect for Winnipeg, with no parking between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. on streets designated as winter routes. Those parked in violation may be ticketed and towed to a compound.
Motorists are encouraged to check Manitoba 511 for up-to-date road conditions before travelling.
WRHA home care delays
The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority is advising residents of Winnipeg that community health services — home care services, in particular — may be affected tonight and Thursday due to the adverse weather.
Clients whose visits will be cancelled can expect to be contacted by phone and notified of the change. Depending on the nature of the service, some visits could be delayed or cancelled. Clients wishing to cancel their own visits may contact their case coordinator, nurse or if after business hours, contact (204) 788-8331.
