A Weather Warning is in effect for parts of Southwestern Manitoba including the Brandon, Souris, Killarney, Manitou and Pilot Mound regions. Rain changing to snow, and strong northerly winds producing reduced visibility are expected today."

 

Inclement weather's hitting our area, and Manitoba Public Insurance is reminding you to be careful. Spokesperson Brian Smiley says Environment Canada issued a weather advisory involved blowing snow and rain.

"Obviously, if that does come about, the roads will certainly be challenging to drive on," explains Smiley. "The reminder to motorists out there is to slow down and drive to road conditions. Apparently the rain was to come Wednesday evening, slowly turning to snow and causing for some nasty conditions for driving on Thursday."

Safety tips include staying cautious while you drive on overpasses and bridges. He notes those surfaces freeze quickly due to lack of ground insulation. Smiley says you should avoiding rushing anywhere, adding you don't want to bump into a vehicle in front of you. Leave space between you and the car in front, and leave for your destination five to ten minutes early.

He adds traction is reduced on slippery roads, so prepare to take time to come to a full stop. Smiley says if you don't have winter tires you can check out the positive aspects of winter tires, keeping in mind the low-interest winter tire program that's currently still in effect.