Winter storm shifts east after causing widespread travel disruptions on Prairies

A powerful winter storm that snarled traffic and shut down major highways across the Prairies is now pushing east, bringing heavy snow and dangerous conditions to parts of Ontario and Quebec.

Environment Canada says blizzard conditions are continuing across Saskatchewan and Manitoba as the storm moves through southern areas of both provinces. Blowing snow and strong winds are expected to gradually ease later today, but travel remains hazardous on many rural highways and secondary roads.

Winter storm warnings are now in effect across north-central Ontario and into Quebec, where snowfall totals could reach up to 30 centimetres. The national weather agency is warning that reduced visibility and rapidly changing road conditions could impact commuters and commercial transport across the region.

The system is also accompanied by extreme cold. Across northern Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, wind chill values are plunging to between minus 45 and minus 50 degrees Celsius, creating dangerous conditions for anyone outdoors and increasing the risk of frostbite within minutes.

In Alberta, the storm brought significant travel disruptions on Wednesday as an Alberta Clipper swept through the province. Police responded to dozens of weather-related collisions as freezing rain and icy roads made driving treacherous.

One of the most severe incidents occurred on the Queen Elizabeth II Highway, where a large multi-vehicle pile-up involving an estimated 80 to 100 vehicles forced the closure of the major corridor between Calgary and Airdrie for several hours. Authorities urged motorists across the Prairies to delay travel and monitor weather alerts as conditions continue to evolve.