Drivers in the Portage la Prairie area are being urged to use caution today as winter conditions persist along major roadways.
With periods of blowing snow and reduced visibility on the Trans-Canada Highway between Portage la Prairie and Elie, motorists are advised to slow down and drive according to conditions.
According to Environment Canada, strong southerly winds are contributing to hazardous travel.
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Blowing snow reduces visibility on the Trans-Canada Highway between Portage la Prairie and Elie as strong southerly winds move through the region. PortageOnline/Chris Kitchen
Winds are expected from the south at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, and are expected to increase to 50 km/h with gusts up to 70 km/h near noon. Despite a daytime high of minus 7, the strong winds are making it feel much colder, with wind chill values near minus 26 this morning and minus 18 this afternoon.
The conditions are due to a weekend system that brings snow and gusty winds to southern Manitoba.
While snowfall amounts are expected to be relatively modest, the combination of open terrain and increasing winds continues to create localized blowing snow, particularly along highways in the region.