Canada: Adverse weather forecast across southern and central Manitoba and northwestern Ontario through at least early Dec. 9

Heavy rainfall, heavy snowfall, and strong winds are forecast across parts of southern and central Manitoba and northwestern Ontario through at least early Dec. 9. Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red freezing rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Cross Lake, Norway House, and Wabowden in Manitoba. The freezing rain may be mixed with rain or snow and will taper off the evening of Dec. 7 as the precipitation transitions to snow.

• Red snowfall warnings: Pikangikum and Sandy Lake in Ontario and the rest of central and southern Manitoba. Snowfall of up to 25 cm (10 inches) is forecast, with the heaviest snow in Ontario.

• Grey special weather statements for snowfall: The rest of northwestern Ontario. Snowfall of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) is forecast. Reduced visibility in heavy snow and areas of blowing snow is likely.

Officials may update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

The storm system could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow) and strong winds across the affected area. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in northern parts of the affected area over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in these areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations

The disruptive weather could cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations in coastal areas if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.