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Treacherous driving conditions are being reported in much of southern Manitoba, with a blowing snow advisory still in effect across much of the province.
Several highways were closed in the Parkland region through much of the early morning, but have since been reopened.
Highways in the Winnipeg area and Red River Valley remain open, but many motorists are reporting hazardous conditions, including drifting snow, icy patches, and near-zero visibility.
Highway 1 between Elie and Headingley has been flagged as particularly dangerous, with reports of slippery roads and extremely reduced visibility.
'Worst it's been this year'
Courtney David was travelling from Winnipeg after work back to her home in Carman, Man., when she was forced to pull over due to poor visibility.
"This is the worst it’s been this year besides last Friday," she says, referring to last week's blizzard which caused numerous multi-car collisions in the region.
David travels Highway 3 every day for work and says she would urge people to stay off the highways this morning.
"I’m surprised [the highway] is still open," she told us in an online message around 6 a.m.
Other people have reported that Highway 1 west of Winnipeg "is terrible." They got to Portage la Prairie just after 9 a.m., having travelled from Winnipeg. They said that they were forced to reduce their speed to 60 km/h in many areas and that the Perimeter Highway had also been a difficult drive.
Conditions to improve later in the day
The weather system responsible for these conditions is expected to settle down by late Saturday morning as winds ease and snow clears. However, blowing snow will continue early in the day, especially in exposed areas, making travel hazardous.
Environment Canada and Manitoba officials urge drivers to avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve.
If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is prepared for emergencies, drive with extreme caution, and check road conditions before heading out.