Manitoba RCMP are reminding everyone that traveling during blizzard conditions on closed highways and provincial roads is extremely dangerous and should not be attempted.
Weather conditions began to deteriorate in parts of western Manitoba late on December 17 and continued to worsen through the eastern half of the province today. As a result, a large number of highways and provincial roads have been shut down.
Between 6pm on December 17 and 8:30am on December 18, the Manitoba RCMP Operational Communications Centre (OCC) has received 11 reports of motor vehicle collisions on highways throughout the province. There are also numerous reports of vehicles stuck in ditches.
Approximately 20 motorists have called to report that they are stranded due to road conditions. RCMP officers and tow truck operators are not currently able to reach these individuals. To ensure the safety of the stranded motorists, OCC operators are doing regular check-ins over the phone.
If you plan on travelling on a provincial road or highway that is open, please ensure you have the following:
- Full tank of gas
- Winter tires
- Shovel
- Jumper cables
- Emergency road safety kit
- Appropriate clothing for weather conditions and blankets
- Fully charged cell phone
- Food or water for longer trips
Roads are being assessed on an hour-by-hour basis, and RCMP remind motorists the check Manitoba 511 for updates on road conditions before attempting any travel.
