Upcoming Weather Shift: Special Weather Alert for Winnipeg and Surrounding Areas

The Colorado low will bring a mix of precipitation to southern Manitoba and southeastern Saskatchewan

WINNIPEG – WEATHER – Residents of the city of Winnipeg and surrounding areas are advised to prepare for significant changes in weather conditions. A Colorado low is moving into southern Manitoba and southeast Saskatchewan, signaling the end of the last mild spell.

The system is set to introduce a variety of weather patterns, including rain and snow, beginning this evening.

Expected weather patterns

The actual separation between rain and snow, known as the rain-snow line, is expected to extend east through the Red River Valley toward the Ontario border. The exact location of this demarcation is still unknown.

Snow is expected to begin tonight in southeastern Saskatchewan and southwestern Manitoba, move through the Interlake region, and end Thursday evening.

Forecast snow accumulations range from 10 to 15 cm per 24-hour period, with possible peaks of up to 25 cm. Snow warnings have been issued for western Manitoba, where snow is expected.

The Red River Valley and southeastern Manitoba will see precipitation initially as rain tonight. A line of rain and snow will move east Thursday afternoon, with precipitation changing to snow, which will persist into Friday morning. This shift, along with the recent mild temperatures, can lead to slippery conditions on roads and sidewalks. In addition, there is a risk of freezing rain near the boundary between rain and snow.

Precipitation forecast and uncertainty

Because of uncertainty regarding the exact location and timing of the rain-snow line, the predicted total precipitation varies. The Red River Valley and areas to the east will see 5 to 15 mm of rain and 5 to 10 cm of snow, with the heaviest precipitation likely near the Ontario border as the transition from rain to snow is gradual.

Looking ahead

A return to colder temperatures is expected in the region after this system passes, but they will be above seasonal averages over the weekend and into next week.

Impact on Northwestern Ontario

It could affect parts of the Colorado Lowlands. Stay up-to-date with the latest weather on NetNewsLedger.com