Southern Manitoba is bracing for another bout of wintry weather as a fast-moving Alberta clipper sweeps across the region. Meteorologist Colleen Bready provided the latest forecast on the afternoon of Friday, December 19, 2025, detailing the system's expected impacts.
What to Expect from the Latest Storm System
The weather phenomenon, known as an Alberta clipper, is a low-pressure system that originates in the province of Alberta and moves rapidly southeast. These systems are notorious for bringing sharp bursts of snow and strong winds. According to Bready's forecast, this particular clipper is set to blast through southern Manitoba, significantly reducing visibility and creating difficult travel conditions.
The timing of the storm is crucial for residents making end-of-day plans. The system moved in during the afternoon of December 19th, with conditions expected to persist into the evening. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution, as snow-covered roads and sudden gusts can lead to hazardous situations.
Staying Safe During Winter Weather Events
Alberta clippers, while often short in duration, can be intense. The combination of accumulating snow and wind gusts, which can reach high speeds, frequently leads to blowing and drifting snow. This can cause whiteout conditions on highways, particularly in open, rural areas of southern Manitoba.
Local authorities typically advise residents to monitor updated forecasts closely. If travel is not essential, it is often safer to stay put until the system passes. Ensuring vehicles are equipped with winter survival kits, including blankets, a shovel, and extra warm clothing, is a recommended precaution for anyone who must venture out.
Context of a Busy Weather and News Day
The Alberta clipper forecast was part of a broader national news summary on December 19th that highlighted various events across Canada. Other notable reports included a police officer shot in Welland, Ontario, prompting a shelter-in-place order, and an update that total insured losses from the recent devastating flooding in British Columbia were still weeks away from being fully tallied.
In Manitoba specifically, the weather warning coincided with safety reminders about the dangers of unpredictable ice on frozen waterbodies, following tragic snowmobile incidents. Colleen Bready's forecast serves as a timely alert for Manitobans to prepare for rapidly changing winter conditions, a common but serious feature of the Prairie climate during this season.
