Near-zero visibility, and "rapidly accumulating snow" is a possibility this evening and tomorrow for parts of the province as winter weather is expected to make its first appearance.

Environment Canada has issued a snow squall watch for areas along the east side of Lake Winnipeg as a weather system approaches the province.

The national forecaster says in the watch notice that "snow squalls will develop east of Lake Winnipeg beginning this evening and lasting throughout Thursday." Meteorologists say that "rapidly accumulating snow along with near zero visibilities at times is expected under the strongest squalls."

It's hard right now to pinpoint exact snowfall totals, but Environment Canada says that "Significant snowfall accumulations are possible." It warns that "amounts will be highly variable due to warm ground temperatures and ongoing melting."

The watches could be upgraded to warnings "when the location and intensity of the squall bands become more certain."

The watch also advises that "travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve."

The areas under the watch include Berens River, Little Grand Rapids, Victoria Beach, and Nopiming Prov. Park.

It's the first winter weather watch or warning for most of the province since April.

Meanwhile parts of northern Manitoba are under wind warnings. Brochet and Taoule Lake are expected to experience severe winds with gusts up to 90 km/h beginning around noon on Wednesday.

Current watches and warnings

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