Transport truck blocks westbound lane on Trans-Canada Highway east of Portage

Traffic moves cautiously past a transport truck restricting westbound travel on the Trans-Canada Highway near Portage la Prairie during blowing snow conditions. (PNN)


A transport truck is blocking one westbound lane of Highway 1 on the bypass east of Angle Road, slowing traffic in the area.

Though the highway remains passable, only one westbound lane is currently open to traffic. Drivers travelling through the area are being asked to slow down, follow traffic control, and proceed with caution.

The lane restriction comes as hazardous travel conditions are expected across Portage la Prairie and much of south-central Manitoba.

A map shows the area east of Angle Road where a transport truck is blocking one westbound lane of Highway 1 near Portage la Prairie.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow-level blowing snow advisory for the region, which includes the Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie and surrounding areas stretching west and north toward Lake Manitoba and east into the Red River Valley.

According to the weather agency, a strong cold front moving south through the province is expected to bring powerful northwest winds, with gusts between 60 and 80 kilometres per hour. While snowfall amounts are expected to be light, the combination of fresh snow and strong winds may result in blowing snow, poor visibility, and localized near-zero conditions, particularly in open areas.

Environment Canada warns that travel could become hazardous, especially on highways and rural roads exposed to open fields. Sudden reductions in visibility will make driving difficult, and road closures are possible if conditions deteriorate. Find the latest weather conditions and forecasts on the Jani-King Weather Page.

Motorists are being encouraged to postpone non-essential travel where possible and to check road conditions before heading out. Those who must travel are advised to carry emergency supplies, reduce speed, increase following distance, and remain alert for changing road conditions.