The first blast of winter weather hit Winnipeg Thursday night, driving snow across the city and temporarily closing some Manitoba highways. The City of Winnipeg said crews are plowing major roads, sidewalks, active transportation paths and back lanes on a priority system, noting that a major plowing operation is activated when snow accumulation is five centimeters or more. There are currently no parking restrictions in place, but drivers are reminded to be careful with heavy equipment and drive in conditions. Private contractors are also being deployed to clear parking lots across the city. “It could be a little bit of a challenge, but we’re ready,” said Bryan Ginter with Superior Contracting, who says his company has contracts with 180 lots. Arnold Metcalf came into town on Friday and was seen shoveling the steps of a church. He said the difference in snow between Winnipeg and surrounding areas is significant. “I came from Teulon and that was really kind of different because at Teulon they had about a millimeter. You pull over the Perimeter and it’s like entering the Arctic,” he said.
