Police in Winnipeg are warning motorists of difficult driving conditions in the region on Christmas Day.
Wind speeds have hit above 70 km/h for much of the afternoon. That’s caused blowing snow and heavy drifting on highways.
The Winnipeg Police Service published a post on its X account on Wednesday afternoon saying, “Blowing snow is causing low visibility and significant snow drifts on the South Perimeter and surrounding areas.”
The WPS says they’ve had reports of “multiple vehicles” getting stuck in the drifts.
Drivers should allow extra time for travel, according to the post. “Maintain a safe following distance and adjust your speed to the conditions to ensure safety,” the WPS says.
Traffic Advisory: Blowing snow is causing low visibility and significant snow drifts on the South Perimeter and surrounding areas. Multiple vehicles have been reported stuck, including on Wilkes Avenue. Drivers are urged to exercise caution, consider alternative routes, and allow…
— Winnipeg Police (@wpgpolice) December 25, 2024
High winds are expected to continue into the evening before diminishing slightly overnight.
However, motorists should also be aware that the region has a chance of freezing drizzle overnight. Combined with temperatures just below the freezing mark could make for an especially difficult drive in some areas.