A significant winter storm system is advancing eastward across the Prairies, with Southern Manitoba and Northern Ontario now in its path and preparing for severe impacts. The storm, which has already caused widespread disruption further west, is expected to bring a combination of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low visibility.
Storm Triggers Warnings and Disruptions
Authorities have issued weather alerts as the system approaches. In Manitoba, the storm has already led to multiple highway closures and significant disruptions to services. Travel is being strongly discouraged due to what officials are describing as extreme and hazardous conditions. The situation mirrors earlier impacts in Saskatchewan, where RCMP responded to dozens of crashes as the winter storm took its toll.
Meanwhile, in a separate weather event, Ottawa is forecast to receive 10-20 mm of rain over the next two days, highlighting the varied and intense weather patterns affecting different regions of the country.
Broader National Weather Context
This storm is part of an active and severe weather pattern across Canada. While Manitoba and Ontario brace for snow, other provinces are facing their own challenges. Every province outside of one specific region has some form of weather warning in effect, according to forecasts. This includes a snowstorm approaching Quebec with strong winds, a stormy Friday forecast for the Maritimes, and even a stark contrast in Toronto, which saw a high of 10°C before an expected return to frigid conditions.
The storm's movement eastward follows its destructive path through other provinces. In British Columbia, which recently saw its first annual population drop on record, Premier David Eby is set to raise the critical issue of flood mitigation with the Prime Minister and other premiers, stating "This is also a national issue."
Safety Remains the Top Priority
Emergency services across the affected regions are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. The advice from police in Calgary, where similar extreme conditions occurred, was clear: "Don't drive." Residents are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, to prepare for potential power outages, and to check on vulnerable neighbours.
As the storm progresses through December 18, 2025, and into the following days, residents in Southern Manitoba and Northern Ontario are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and warnings closely and to heed all safety advice from officials.
