Southern Manitoba under winter storm, snowfall warnings

Wintery weather is rolling into southern Manitoba Saturday evening, bringing mixed precipitation, freezing rain, heavy snow and strong wind gusts, making travel hazardous in some parts of the province. 

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the region, and a snowfall warning has been issued throughout the southern part of the province.

The national weather agency said a strong low-pressure system in southern Saskatchewan is responsible for the wintery blast over a large swath of the province.

The winter storm is expected to roll into southwestern Manitoba, including in Brandon, Russell, and Dauphin overnight on Saturday, bringing rain and freezing rain for up to six hours and then changing into widespread snow on Sunday morning. 

Environment Canada expects temperatures to hover around the freezing mark across much of southwestern Manitoba, with winds reaching as high as 60 km/h with gusts. 

Snowfall rates of as much as two centimetres per hour are expected, with accumulation amounts in the range of 10 to 20 centimetres, the weather agency said. 

Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility and icy road conditions. The national weather agency recommends travellers consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.

Meanwhile, in southeastern Manitoba, snowfall is expected to begin on Sunday morning. Environment and Climate Change Canada's mild temperatures might initially limit blowing snow, but strong winds can create poor visibility. 

The snowfall warning is in effect for  Winnipeg, Selkirk and Steinbach areas, as well as for the Swan River Provincial Park.

The national weather agency expects the system to taper off overnight on Sunday, with a total amount of 10 to 20 centimetres of snow expected. 

Rapidly accumulating snow and reduced visibility at times could make travel difficult in some locations.