A significant winter storm has impacted parts of Manitoba, resulting in heavy snowfall and strong winds. Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning early on Monday, predicting over 30 centimeters of snow in some northern areas by the storm’s end. The regions from Flin Flon through Thompson were expected to be the hardest hit, with snowfall amounts ranging from 10-25 cm in other warned areas.
Residents like Stuart McDowell in The Pas are facing challenges due to the wet, heavy snow causing downed trees and branches. Northerly winds reaching 50-60 km/h are leading to poor visibility and blowing snow, prompting highway closures. Highways 391 and 280 were closed due to hazardous driving conditions, as a storm from Montana transitioned into heavy snow over northern Manitoba.
Elissa Bogdan, co-owner of Wekusko Falls Lodge, highlighted the need for extensive tree removal in the area to clear roads obstructed by fallen trees. Power outages have affected around 11,000 customers in eastern, northern, and western Manitoba due to wind, rain, and tree damage to power lines. Manitoba Hydro crews are working diligently to restore power, prioritizing repairs that will benefit the most customers.
Despite the disruptions, Bogdan noted the importance of the much-needed moisture brought by the snow, following a dry summer and severe fire season. While the storm has caused damage and outages, the welcomed moisture is viewed as a positive outcome amidst the challenges faced by residents in the region.