Post by : Meena Ariff

A powerful winter storm sweeping through the Prairies has caused major travel disruptions for residents in Winnipeg on Friday. At Richardson International Airport, passengers encountered flight delays and cancellations for the second day in a row as an Alberta clipper moved through southern Manitoba.

Numerous flights across Canada, including those to Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver, faced delays or outright cancellations. Jared and Laura Dennis returned to the airport after their family’s trip to Cuba was postponed, only to learn their flights were once again cancelled. Jared lamented, calling their long-awaited vacation “ruined.”

Passengers voiced their frustrations over last-minute cancellations and the lack of timely communication from the airlines. Fazia Aitzenti, also headed for Cuba, expressed her anger: “I’m really mad… They cancel flights just minutes before boarding and have no clue if we can fly tomorrow.”

The Winnipeg Airports Authority recommended that travelers verify their flight status before arriving at the airport and remain informed via their airlines.

Simultaneously, the city contended with blowing snow and low visibility. Environment Canada issued alerts for decreased visibility across southern Manitoba through Saturday evening. The City of Winnipeg reported over 200 buses stranded in snow on Thursday, with an additional 11 caught on Friday morning.

Commuters like Mark Travers highlighted the delays in public transit, mentioning that the heavy snowfall complicates travel. Yet, some Winnipeggers remained nonchalant. Gerry Kovalik remarked that this weather is “the best thing in the world” for drivers with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Hannah and Brady Hallett, out for a stroll, mentioned that the harsh conditions are simply part of Winnipeg life, encouraging others to “get used to it” and “let it snow.”

#Canada News #Environment news #World News #Climate Change