Brace yourself for a snowy Wednesday and beyond! 🌨️🌨️
Update: As of Wednesday morning, February 18th, residents across the region are digging out from a significant snowfall, and there's more to come! This relentless winter storm is far from over, impacting the area through today and into Thursday.
According to CMOS Accredited Weathercaster Chris Sumner, "We've already seen 7-10 centimeters of heavy, wet snow, and there's more on the way. An additional 10 centimeters are expected during the day, and we might even get a few more centimeters tonight." Sumner also noted that the changeover from rain and freezing rain to snow happened later than anticipated, which may have resulted in lower initial snowfall totals on Wednesday morning compared to the forecast.
Key Alert: A Snowfall Warning is in effect for most of Southern Manitoba, so stay prepared!
But here's where it gets interesting: Sumner emphasizes, "This is just the start of the accumulating snowfall." He predicts a prolonged storm event, with precipitation lasting over 24 hours since it began on Tuesday. The snow will persist well into Thursday, gradually easing off by tomorrow night. By the time this storm concludes, Sumner expects the Pembina and western Red River Valleys to reach a total of 15 centimeters, with some areas potentially reaching closer to 20 centimeters.
And this is the part most people miss: the snowfall won't be consistent. It will come in waves, with periods of intense snow followed by lighter flurries or even brief respites. So, while it may seem like a break, don't be fooled—more snow is likely on the way.
As for the winds, they'll gradually subside throughout Wednesday, a welcome change from last night's powerful gusts exceeding 60 km/h. Expect gusts up to 50 km/h during the day, easing off to lighter winds tonight.
Stay Informed: For the Sun Valley Tire Road Report and Cancellations, click here: [link]. And for the latest CDK Electric forecast, visit: [link].
Sumner concludes, "This moisture-filled system will remind us of those classic Spring snowstorms in March and April. So, don't be fooled by the current conditions; there's much more snow to come. Keep your shovels and snowblowers at the ready!"
