Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for all of southern Manitoba as a potentially historic snowstorm heads for the region. Over 60 cm of snow is possible in areas near the US border and many other areas could see 20 to over 40 cm of snow.

The national forecaster says that heavy snow, strong winds and blowing snow for southern Manitoba is expected to begin late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning. However, there is also a chance the system moves off, or snow changes to rain.

"A Colorado low will move towards Minnesota Tuesday night bringing a heavy swath of snow from southeastern Saskatchewan through most of southern Manitoba," the statement says.

"The axis of heaviest snow looks to remain through North Dakota but large accumulations are still expected in southern Manitoba, notably near the international border. Storm-total snowfall accumulations near the US border may approach 60 cm. North of this region, general storm-total accumulations of 20 to 40+ cm are possible, including for the city of Winnipeg."

Meteorologists say to also expect high winds to accompany the system, which will cause "widespread reductions in visibility."

High winds from the north are expected on Wednesday. "Winds of 60 to 70 km/h are likely, with the strongest winds being in the Red River Valley with gusts up to 80 km/h at times Wednesday night into Thursday."

The statement says that "blowing snow is possible Wednesday but is more likely Wednesday night through Thursday as temperatures cool somewhat. These conditions will likely result in a deterioration of travel conditions."

Environment Canada says that the region will likely be impacted until Friday when conditions improve and the heaviest snow moves into northern Ontario.

"Confidence regarding the track of this Colorado low is slowly improving but remains uncertain. Deviation in the track could lead to significant changes in the projected storm-total accumulations, precipitation type (rain/snow/ice pellets) and wind speeds over the region."

We will continue to monitor the system and keep you updated with the latest details.