Residents in The Pas, Manitoba, should prepare for a quick weather shift as a brief warm spell on January 12, 2026, is expected to bring freezing rain and icy road conditions. A low-pressure system is drawing warm air into the region, causing temperatures to rise well above the typical deep-freeze levels usually seen during the winter months.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), temperatures are forecast to reach a high of +2°C on Jan. 12 before dropping back down in the evening. That is roughly 17 degrees warmer than the January average high for The Pas (about -15.7°C), according to historical climate normals.
The sudden thaw followed by a freeze creates a high risk for black ice on local streets and Highway 10. As melting snow turns to water and mixes with afternoon rain showers, it can quickly freeze into a slippery layer on pavement as temperatures dip below zero in the evening.
This icy weather could cause disruptions for families and travelers. The Kelsey School Division monitors weather and road conditions to decide whether buses can safely operate (the Division’s policy also sets extreme-cold rules for bus cancellations). Airport management and airlines may also be affected: WASCO (Winnipeg Airport Services Corp.), which manages The Pas Airport on behalf of the Town, and carriers may need to conduct aircraft de-icing and apply runway treatments, which can delay regional flights.
Town of The Pas public works crews typically respond by sanding and salting roads to reduce slippery conditions. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and check road reports (for example via Manitoba 511) before heading out on Highway 10 during the transition.
