The City of Winnipeg and the Red River Valley are now under a blizzard warning according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.
“A sharp change in the weather is on tap for the Red River Valley on Friday in the wake of a cold front,” ECCC said in its warning, noting a cold front will pass through the area, bringing a centimetre or so of snow, strong winds and cold temperatures.
ECCC said winds are expected to increase to 70 kilometres per hour, and gusts could get as high as 100 km/h, which will cause near-zero visibility, blowing snow and make travel difficult.
“Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” ECCC said. “If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance.”
ECCC issues blizzard warnings when widespread reduced visibilities of 400 metres or less are expected for at least four hours.
Winds are expected to improve Friday evening, ECCC said.
Blowing snow advisories remain in effect for much of western Manitoba, while central Manitoba remains under snowfall warnings.
