WiNNIPEG – WEATHER – As December 4, 2024, begins, Winnipeg and the Red River Valley are experiencing challenging weather conditions, with poor visibility due to blowing snow. Northerly winds, gusting between 70 and 80 km/h, are creating hazardous travel conditions, particularly in open areas and near the Perimeter Highway.
The blowing snow advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve later in the day.
Current Conditions (5:00 AM CST, December 4, 2024):
Winnipeg is currently cloudy, with a temperature of -11.2°C. The wind is from the northwest at 60 km/h, gusting to 74 km/h, resulting in a wind chill of -24°C. Humidity is at 71%, and visibility is at 19 km in the city but significantly reduced in open areas due to blowing snow. The barometric pressure is 101.3 kPa and rising.
Forecast for December 4, 2024 (Today):
Winnipeg will remain mainly cloudy, with a 60% chance of flurries throughout the day. Blowing snow will persist in open areas, especially during the morning and early afternoon. Winds will gradually diminish to north 40 km/h, gusting to 60 km/h, by late afternoon. Temperatures will fall to -14°C this afternoon, with wind chills dropping to -30°C, posing a risk of frostbite.
Tonight: Partly cloudy skies will dominate as winds diminish to 20 km/h early in the evening. Temperatures will drop to a low of -19°C, with wind chills around -29°C. Frostbite risk remains high overnight.
Forecast for December 5, 2024 (Thursday):
Expect a mix of sun and clouds, with winds shifting to the south at 20 km/h by noon. The high will reach -13°C, with wind chills of -29°C in the morning and -20°C in the afternoon. The UV index will remain low at 1.
Thursday Night: Skies will become cloudy, with a 40% chance of flurries overnight. Temperatures will remain cold, with a low of -11°C.
Forecast for December 6, 2024 (Friday):
Conditions will improve as the skies clear, bringing a brighter day. The high temperature will rise to -6°C, offering some relief from the intense cold.
Friday Night: Cloudy periods will return, with a low of -7°C.
Hazards and Advisory Details:
- Hazards: Poor visibility due to blowing snow, with visibility reduced to 800 metres or less for several hours. Wind chills reaching dangerous levels of -30°C.
- Timing: The blowing snow will begin to abate over the northern Red River Valley, including Winnipeg, by the afternoon and over southern areas by the evening.
Motorists are advised to slow down, use caution while traveling, and be prepared to stop suddenly. Ensure pets and outdoor animals are sheltered from the severe conditions.
Wardrobe Suggestions:
Residents should wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including insulated winter coats, thermal pants, and windproof accessories. Gloves, hats, and scarves are essential to prevent frostbite, especially during the morning and evening hours when wind chills are most severe.
Weather Trivia:
Winnipeg’s Red River Valley is notorious for strong winds and blowing snow during winter. The flat terrain and lack of natural windbreaks amplify these conditions, making this region one of the most challenging for winter driving in Canada.
