Winnipeg – WEATHER – The City of Winnipeg and surrounding areas are currently grappling with a severe weather event, as a blowing snow advisory underscores the challenges posed by strong northerly winds and light snowfall. Residents are urged to exercise caution and prepare for the harsh conditions that have enveloped the city and its surroundings.
Early Morning Conditions: A Frosty Greeting
As of 6:30 AM, Winnipeg is witnessing light snow coupled with significant blowing snow, driven by north winds at 40 km/h gusting to 54 km/h. The temperature sits at a frigid -17°C, but the wind chill plunges it further to feel like -30°C.
The barometric pressure at 101.0 kPa is rising, indicating the weather system’s progression, while a high humidity level of 84% adds to the day’s biting cold.
Today’s Weather Outlook: Snowy Start with Clearing Skies
The forecast predicts that snow will cease near noon, giving way to a mix of sun and cloud. The morning and early afternoon will continue to see blowing snow, exacerbated by north winds at 50 km/h gusting to 70 km/h, although these are expected to diminish to 30 km/h by the afternoon.
Temperatures will drop to -20°C, with wind chills reaching -34°C in the morning and -29°C in the afternoon, highlighting the risk of frostbite for those exposed to the elements.
Tonight: Calmer Yet Still Cold
The evening will see a few clouds with winds decreasing to 15 km/h. The overnight low is forecasted at -27°C, with wind chills making it feel like -29°C in the evening and dropping to -36°C overnight, maintaining a significant risk of frostbite.
Extended Forecast: Gradual Improvement
Wednesday promises mainly sunny skies with light winds, offering a slight reprieve despite the high remaining at a chilly -18°C. Wind chills in the morning could feel as cold as -36°C, warming slightly to -25°C in the afternoon.
The night will introduce cloudy periods with a low of -21°C. Thursday will bring a mix of sun and cloud with a much warmer high of -1°C, followed by a clear night and a low of -1°C.
Advisory Details and Safety Measures
The blowing snow advisory, triggered by strong northerly winds following an Alberta Clipper system, warns of poor visibility due to snow and blowing snow.
Maximum wind gusts could reach 70 to 80 km/h, especially in southern portions of the Manitoba Interlake and the Red River Valley. Conditions are expected to be most severe on Tuesday morning, with potential upgrades to a blizzard warning if they deteriorate further.
Travellers are advised to check road conditions before departing and to carry an emergency kit in their vehicles. With visibility possibly reduced to near zero, non-essential travel should be postponed.
Residents are reminded to dress warmly in layers, cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite, and adjust driving to match road conditions.
Weather Trivia: The Power of Alberta Clippers
Alberta Clippers, like the one affecting Winnipeg, are fast-moving low-pressure systems that originate from the Canadian province of Alberta.
Known for their swift journey across the central United States and into Canada, these systems can bring sharp temperature drops and significant wind speeds, leading to conditions like those currently experienced in Winnipeg.
