A winter storm watch has replaced a flash freeze warning over Winnipeg and parts of southern Manitoba. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued the yellow watch for a winter storm shortly after 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. “Hazardous winter conditions are possible,” the weather watch reads. “A powerful Alberta Clipper is being closely monitored by meteorologists, with the potential to bring blizzard conditions to southern Manitoba.” The storm is expected to remain in place from Wednesday morning until Thursday evening and could bring with it 10 to 20 cm of snow. Freezing rain and wind gusts are also possible, which ECCC noted may lead to blizzard conditions. This winter storm watch replaces the yellow warning for a flash freeze that was in place throughout Tuesday morning. It was lifted shortly before 3:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoon. “A rapid drop in temperature will cause wet or slushy surfaces to suddenly freeze,” the warning read. ECCC said a strong cold front would bring a very rapid drop in temperatures over the Red River Valley and southeastern Manitoba. “Roads and walkways may quickly become icy and slippery,” ECCC said. “Be very careful if walking or driving.” The flash freeze was expected to remain until Tuesday evening.
