Residents in Winkler, Manitoba, should prepare for dangerous road conditions as rain and flurries on Thursday night are expected to freeze quickly. According to Environment Canada, there is a 60 per cent chance of moisture before temperatures drop sharply to -13°C. This rapid change will likely create “black ice” and slippery surfaces just in time for the Friday morning commute on February 6, 2026.
The City of Winkler Public Works department maintains about 130 kilometres of local roads and often starts sanding at 4:30 AM during winter weather events. However, officials warn that road salt becomes much less effective once temperatures fall below -7°C. Drivers and pedestrians should use extra caution on major routes like Highway 14 and Highway 32, as surfaces may look wet but are actually frozen.
The Garden Valley School Division will be monitoring road traction early Friday morning to decide on possible school bus cancellations. A decision is typically made by school officials before 6:45 AM if the ice makes travel unsafe for students. Residents are encouraged to check for real-time updates on highway conditions through Manitoba 511 before heading out.
