Winter has arrived early in parts of northern Manitoba, bringing with it a powerful storm that has left communities blanketed in deep snow, strewn with fallen trees, and facing widespread power outages.

A snowfall warning was issued early Monday, forecasting more than 30 centimeters of snow in some regions as the storm moved through. The heaviest accumulation was expected along a line stretching from Flin Flon through Thompson, with surrounding areas set to receive 10–25 cm.

Specific forecasts called for 20-plus centimeters in Wabowden and Pukatawagan, while Lynn Lake was expected to see between 5 and 10 cm.

Heavy, Wet Snow and Strong Winds Compound Problems

“It’s wet, heavy snow. It’s just hard slugging to get anywhere,” said Stuart McDowell of The Pas, describing scenes of fallen trees and downed branches throughout town.

Northerly winds were gusting up to 50–60 km/h, creating blowing snow and poor visibility. Drivers were advised to stay off the roads as highway closures became inevitable.

Among those closed were Highway 391 (Leaf Rapids to Nelson House) and Highway 280 (Thompson to Split Lake), both shut due to hazardous driving conditions.

Storm Origin and Development

Meteorologists explained that the storm originated in Montana, tracking along the Manitoba–Saskatchewan border on Sunday.

“It brought substantial rain to parts of the province, but then transitioned into snow as colder air moved in,” they said. “We’re seeing some pretty heavy snowfall across northern Manitoba right now.”

Communities Struggle With Damage and Power Loss

In areas like Wekusko Falls, near The Pas, fallen trees and blocked roads have made travel nearly impossible. Elissa Bogdan, co-owner of Wekusko Falls Lodge, said the snowfall intensified quickly.

“Once the rain started to turn to snow, it got heavy and wet. We lost power late in the evening, and then you could hear the trees starting to crack,” she said.

One resident mistook the sound for gunfire. “I said it wasn’t guns — it was trees falling,” Bogdan recounted. “She was really surprised at how loud it was.”

Nearby, in Snow Lake, local officials urged residents to conserve water after the generator powering the water treatment plant ran out of fuel. The town said a refueling truck was en route but delayed by snow-clogged roads.

Power Utility Battles Widespread Outages

The severe weather wreaked havoc on the electrical grid. About 11,000 customers were reported without power across eastern, northern, and western regions of the province.

“Wind, rain, and trees making contact with wires have caused damage to lines, poles, and other equipment,” said a spokesperson.

Crews are prioritizing major repair zones that can restore power to the most people quickly, but repairs may take well into the night due to the storm’s wide impact.

Bogdan said her lodge has been without electricity since 9 p.m. Sunday. “We’re preparing for a day or two without power,” she said. “Thankfully, it’s not freezing, so we can stay warm, but people are definitely looking for hot food and warm showers.”

A Silver Lining Amid the Snow

Despite the chaos, residents acknowledge one positive outcome — moisture relief after a parched summer.

“We were so dry all summer and had a terrible fire season,” Bogdan said. “Despite all the damage — it would have been nicer if it came as rain — we’re thankful for the moisture because we really needed it.”