A powerful winter storm system, having already caused significant disruption across the Prairies, has moved into Manitoba, bringing dangerous blizzard conditions that have forced the closure of numerous schools on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Dangerous Conditions Prompt Precautionary Closures
School divisions across the province made the decision to cancel classes and close buildings as strong winds and heavy snow created near-zero visibility and treacherous travel conditions. The safety of students, families, and staff was cited as the primary reason for the closures. The storm system's arrival follows a day of chaos in neighbouring provinces, where the same weather led to dozens of vehicle collisions and major highway closures.
The severity of the situation was underscored by a separate incident in Saskatchewan, where RCMP responded to dozens of crashes as the winter storm took its toll. In Alberta, police in Calgary advised residents not to drive due to 'extreme' conditions, and a massive collision involving 80 to 100 vehicles forced the closure of the QEII highway north of Calgary.
Transportation Disrupted and Safety Warnings Issued
The blizzard conditions have made road travel highly risky. Authorities are echoing the advice given in other provinces, urging people to avoid non-essential travel. The combination of accumulating snow and high winds is creating widespread whiteouts, making it difficult for even experienced drivers to navigate.
This weather event highlights the broader pattern of extreme winter conditions affecting much of Canada. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued weather warnings for multiple provinces, with only one region currently excepted. The storm system is expected to continue moving eastward, impacting Ontario and Quebec next.
A Broader Pattern of Winter Extremes
The Manitoba blizzard is part of an active and severe winter weather season. Other regions are grappling with similar challenges, from a snowstorm approaching parts of Quebec to a weather statement warning of a stormy Friday for the Maritimes. These events come as the Arctic experiences unprecedented heat, a phenomenon scientists link to cascading climate impacts.
For Manitoba residents, the immediate focus remains on safety. Staying off the roads, monitoring official updates from local school divisions and government authorities, and preparing for prolonged winter conditions are the key recommendations as this significant storm passes through the region.
