A storm system approaching Northern Manitoba is expected to bring significantly more snow than initially anticipated, according to an upgraded winter storm warning issued by Environment Canada. The region may experience heavy snowfall ranging from 20 to 40 centimeters, in addition to an initial 20-40 millimeters of rain. Severe wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h are also forecasted.
Areas covered by the winter storm warning include Brochet, Leaf Rapids, Lynn Lake, Tadoule Lake, Pukatawagan, South Indian Lake, and Amisk Park Reserve. Churchill is currently under a winter storm watch but may face similar weather conditions.
The weather system is predicted to move into northern Manitoba overnight Friday into Saturday morning, starting as rain or freezing rain before transitioning to snow as the winds intensify. Visibility may be significantly reduced to near-zero at times. Conditions are expected to improve by Sunday afternoon and evening.