A major winter storm has hit parts of Manitoba, causing significant tree damage and power outages. Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning predicting over 30 centimeters of snow in some northern areas by the storm’s end. The most affected regions include Flin Flon, Thompson, Wabowden, and Pukatawagan, with snowfall amounts varying from 5 to 25 centimeters.
Residents like Stuart McDowell from The Pas are facing challenges due to heavy, wet snow leading to downed trees and branches. The storm brought northerly winds of up to 60 km/h, causing poor visibility and prompting highway closures. Highways 391 and 280 were closed due to hazardous driving conditions.
Meteorologist Dan Fulton explained that the storm originated in Montana, transitioned from rain to heavy snow over northern Manitoba, and was now causing significant snowfall. Elissa Bogdan from Wekusko Falls Lodge noted the need for extensive tree removal to clear roads after the storm.
The storm also impacted Manitoba Hydro, resulting in outages affecting approximately 11,000 customers across eastern, northern, and western Manitoba. Crews are working to repair damage caused by wind, rain, and fallen trees, but restoration efforts may take time. Despite the challenges, residents like Bogdan are grateful for the much-needed moisture brought by the snow, following a dry summer and severe fire season.
The heavy snowfall and resulting damage highlight the resilience of Manitobans as they cope with the aftermath of the winter storm.
