On December 18, 2024, Brandon experienced dangerously low wind chills when Environment and Climate Change Canada observations at Brandon Airport recorded a wind chill of −36°C at 11:00 CST, surpassing the agency’s −35°C highlighting threshold. A strong Alberta Clipper brought sustained northerly winds and episodes of blowing snow, with visibility reduced to as low as 0.8 km at points during the day, raising the risk of frostbite and disrupting travel.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada station observations for Dec. 18, 2024, hourly wind-chill readings at 09:00, 10:00 and 11:00 CST (and again later at 23:00 CST) were at or below −35°C. Wind gusts reached as high as 48 km/h. The blowing snow and gusty winds created hazardous driving conditions and prompted closures on stretches of the Trans‑Canada Highway (Hwy 1); Hwy 10 was also reported to be affected.
While the wind chill did not meet the −40°C threshold required for an Extreme Cold Warning in Southern Manitoba, Environment and Climate Change Canada displays wind-chill values of −35°C and below in bold to flag a high frostbite risk. The agency notes that at those wind-chill values exposed skin can freeze in under 10 minutes. Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure crews were deployed to clear lanes and warned motorists that road closures were possible.
The City and local organizations activated warming and shelter supports during the event; local drop-in and temporary warming facilities were available this winter. In its forecast bulletin, Environment Canada said, “a strong Alberta Clipper will bring heavy snow and strong, gusty winds leading to blizzard conditions over portions of southern Manitoba,” and noted Brandon’s prairie exposure often makes it a useful gauge for incoming Arctic fronts.
