Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a Special Weather Statement Friday morning, preparing residents in Southern Manitoba for a storm this weekend.

Meteorologist Brian Proctor says there is an active system on tap for the prairies, especially for Manitoba.

He notes that this system looks very active in southern Manitoba, and we will start to see the wind pick up Saturday afternoon, with snow beginning Saturday night and continuing throughout the weekend, before easing off early Monday.

"We could see 20 to 30 centimetres (7.874 inches x 11.811 inches) of snowfall over portions of southern Manitoba, accompanied by fairly blustery wind and a lot of blowing snow. The water content of this system is probably going to be fairly moist as we move into southern Manitoba, drier to the north and northwest, but associated with that, the snow is probably going to be very sticky at this point in time."

The statement from ECCC notes that this system will likely bring snow, rain, freezing rain, and even a few rumbles of thunder.

"Sunday itself looks to be a fairly significant precipitation day from a meteorological point of view. So, for the people who have to be out and about, you're better to look at travelling early as opposed to late on Saturday. And if you have to be out and about, make sure you get that winter safety kit in your vehicle."

Proctor adds that there is still some uncertainty associated with this pattern. As a result, Portage residents should keep up to date with the latest weather forecast for news on what is coming.

"We're beginning to see a more consistent solution from the computer models at this point in time. I think it's really important that your listeners and readers stay aware of what's going on and keep listening for updated watches and warnings, which we will likely see. Winter Storm Warnings, if not, maybe even Blizzard Warnings for parts of Manitoba as you move through Saturday into Sunday are likely."

ECCC says that Winter Storm Watches and Warnings will likely be issued closer to event time for these areas, and strong winds with gusts up to 80 km/h Saturday night and Sunday will give low visibility.

The exact track of this system is still being determined, and as a result, the location of the snow, freezing rain, and rain is uncertain and will become more apparent as the system approaches.