A significant winter storm system, known as an Alberta clipper, is moving across the Canadian Prairies, bringing a hazardous mix of snow, freezing rain, and blustery conditions. The fast-moving low-pressure system has triggered widespread weather warnings and is already causing travel disruptions and school closures.
Widespread Warnings and Immediate Impacts
Environment Canada has updated winter storm warnings for southern Saskatchewan, where heavy snow and strong winds are combining to create blizzard conditions. In anticipation of the severe weather, the Prairie Spirit School Division has announced the closure of all its schools ahead of the expected blizzard.
The storm's effects are being felt across the region. In Saskatchewan, multiple crashes have been reported as the winter storm rolls in. To the west, several flights out of Edmonton International Airport have been cancelled due to a separate snow storm. In Alberta, blustery conditions contributed to multiple collisions, leading to the closure of a section of the QE II highway.
Forecast for Winnipeg and Beyond
Meteorologist Colleen Bready provided a forecast for Winnipeg on December 17, 2025, detailing the arrival of the powerful clipper system. The city and surrounding areas are bracing for snow and freezing rain as the system pushes through. This follows a pattern of active weather, including a recent storm that knocked out power to more than 100,000 customers on B.C.'s South Coast.
The clipper pattern is characterized by its rapid movement from Alberta through the Prairies and into Ontario, often bringing sharp bursts of snow and a sudden drop in temperature. Residents are advised to prepare for quickly changing road conditions and reduced visibility.
Broader Context of a Stormy Season
This Alberta clipper adds to a series of severe weather events across Canada. Environment Canada has recently issued weather warnings for every province outside of one specific region, highlighting a volatile pattern. The Arctic has also been experiencing unprecedented heat, which scientists note can influence winter storm tracks and intensity further south.
Meanwhile, other provinces are dealing with different winter challenges. In Ontario, a mix of rain and flurries is expected, while a citizen recall petition has been officially approved against Alberta Justice Minister Mickey Amery, an unrelated but concurrent political development.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid non-essential travel in warned areas, to check road conditions before departing, and to have emergency kits in their vehicles. The combination of snow, ice, and wind promises to make this a disruptive weather event for much of central Canada.
