RCMP reverses decision to shut all major highways in Southern Manitoba, but say closures still possible
RCMP say they’ve reversed a decision to close all major highways in Southern Manitoba as a major storm moves into the province Wednesday.
But they say closures are still possible throughout the day if highway conditions continue to deteriorate.
READ MORE: Major storm underway in Manitoba, expected to stick around until Friday
“The Manitoba RCMP continually assessed highway conditions overnight and continues to monitor this morning. Anticipated widespread highway closures across southern Manitoba were not required,” police said in a release sent around 8 a.m. Wednesday.
In a release Tuesday night RCMP had warned all major highways in Southern Manitoba would close at midnight or when it began to snow.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) is advising Manitobans to take precautions as a spring blizzard continues to impact southern and central Manitoba.
Environment Canada has issued storm advisories for the cities of Winnipeg and Brandon and much of southern and central Manitoba. Heavy snow accompanied by strong northerly winds gusting 50 to 70 kilometres per hour are forecast for today and tomorrow. Snowfall rates will ease slightly this afternoon but snow is expected to intensify over the region later today. Widespread snowfall accumulations of 30 to 50 centimetres are expected for much of southern and central Manitoba and North Dakota by Friday.
The snowfall from this weather event will not have an immediate and significant impact on runoff, as the long-range weather forecast calls for below zero temperatures to persist until late next week. Runoff forecasts will be updated and published once the extent and magnitude of the snowfall from the current weather event is known.
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.
MTI continues to monitor highway conditions and has deployed the province’s heavy equipment fleet where snow accumulation has begun. Motorists are reminded to adjust driving habits for winter road conditions and remain alert when following or approaching oncoming highway snowplows. All equipment has flashing blue warning lights and drivers should stay well back of all equipment. Do not attempt to pass snowplows from behind when they are in operation and remember to slow down when passing approaching snowplows.
Manitobans with travel plans are advised to travel only when necessary or wait until road conditions are safe to do so. Manitoba RCMP have closed some highways and more closures are expected as highway conditions continue to deteriorate. 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.
Thursday
In Manitoba, many winter storm warnings are still in place, although the blizzard warnings that were posted for the area have been dropped.
Environment Canada says another five to 10 centimetres of snow is expected in the Red River Valley, including Winnipeg, and southeastern Manitoba.
Southwestern Manitoba, including Brandon, could see another two to five centimetres, while Dauphin and the Interlake region will see an additional five to 10 centimetres today.
“[We] may be seeing the slow decay of this storm,” said Dan Fulton, senior meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Many school divisions in southern Manitoba are opting to keep schools closed on Thursday as the blizzard enters its second day.
The school divisions that have announced schools will be closed on Thursday, April 14 include:
- Garden Valley School Division
- Southwest Horizon School Division (staff is assigned to work from home)
- Fort La Bosse School Division
- Prairie Rose School Division
- Rolling River School Division
- Lord Selkirk School Division
- Sunrise School Division
- Border Land School Division
- Seine River School Division
- Red River Valley School Division (staff to work from home)
The province has warned Manitobans to travel only when necessary or wait until road conditions are safe to do so. Manitobans are asked to check Manitoba 511 for current road conditions.