Residents of southern Manitoba are bracing for strong winds as Environment Canada has issued wind warnings across several regions, including Morden, Winkler, Altona, Emerson, Morris, Steinbach, and Vita. The warnings, activated Saturday morning on March 16, 2025, indicate gusts could reach up to 90 km/h.
The brisk northwestern winds are the result of atmospheric conditions stemming from a Colorado low, which is currently moving through Minnesota and Northwestern Ontario. "These winds are coming off the strong Colorado low skirting Southern Manitoba today," explained CMOS Accredited Weathercaster Chris Sumner. He noted, "that system will continue to move through Minnesota and impact our region, bringing very strong northwesterlies around its northwest side."
Wind conditions began with significant gusts early Saturday, with Altona recording 81 km/h, Dominion City at 75 km/h, and other areas like Kane and Gretna following closely with winds around 72 km/h and 71 km/h respectively.
While the winds are fierce, they are expected to moderate throughout the day. According to forecasts, gusts will ease to around 60 km/h this afternoon, with conditions continuing to calm down by evening. But the powerful gusts could still cause notable issues, including potential damage to buildings and infrastructure. Environment Canada warns the winds may dislodge roof shingles, down tree branches, or even knock over power lines, leading to potential outages for residents.
Additional safety alerts have been issued for motorists, especially those driving high-profile vehicles, due to the hazardous driving conditions created by crosswinds. Loose objects outside could pose serious risks as they may become airborne projectiles, causing injury or damage.
Winnipeg, though not under the wind warning, is also experiencing windy conditions. Wind speeds will start at 40 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h early on, before increasing to 60 km/h and gusting to 80 this morning. With these gusty winds, Winnipeg will experience temperature highs of -7°C, but with wind chills making it feel as cold as -23°C this morning and -17°C by afternoon. Tonight, the temperatures will dip to -17°C, with similar wind chill effects.
Looking forward to Sunday, March 17, residents can expect clearer skies, with sunny conditions expected to give way to increasing clouds later in the day. Light winds will accompany the weather system, and temperatures will remain chilly, reaching only -6°C, with morning wind chill values dropping to -24°C.
The cold air mass being pushed through the region by these gusty winds means temperatures this weekend will be several degrees below the average for mid-March, typically around 0 degrees. Sumner explained, "a cooler air-mass is being ushered by these gusty winds, with highs today and tomorrow expected between -4 and -6 degrees."
Climate observers also anticipate another weak low-pressure area nearing the international border this weekend. Expected to arrive from Saskatchewan on Sunday afternoon, this system could bring cloud cover and isolated flurries as it quickly passes without causing significant impacts.
Residents are urged to prepare for the weather, securing loose objects outdoors and staying cautious on the roads. With the unpredictable range of conditions available this time of year, communities are reminded to stay vigilant and responsive to any weather advisories issued by Environment Canada.