Are you dreaming of a white … Halloween?
Meteorologists say Winnipeg trick-or-treaters could be trudging through snow as they head door to door on Oct. 31, as a series of strong weather systems is expected to bring snow to southern Manitoba beginning Wednesday afternoon.
Global’s chief meteorologist Anthony Farnell says the cold weather is beginning to set in, along with the snow.
“It’s one of these waves that kind of rides along the front, and it’s really the placement of where that boundary is Wednesday into Thursday that’ll decide just how much snow falls,” Farnell said.
“But there are computer models — more than just darts, there are some computer models — that are bringing 10 to 15 centimetres, even to places like Winnipeg.”
Farnell said there’s still a lot of uncertainty about how much snow we could get, and how long it’ll stick around, but by Halloween night, expect things to get chilly.
“Monday lasting into Tuesday, highs (are) well below freezing, windchills into the minus-teens, so unfortunately give yourself some extra room for the parka underneath your costume,” he said.
And while trick-or-treating is top of mind for many at this time of year, an even scarier prospect might be the return of winter driving season.
CAA Manitoba’s communications manager Elisha Dacey says it’s worth it for drivers to be prepared, as CAA often deals with the same service calls every year at this time.
“Aside from winter tires, having your battery tested and replacing it before it fails is a big one,” Dacey told 680 CJOB’s The Start.
“Every cold snap, that’s the biggest thing that CAA Manitoba deals with. It hits -30 C, your battery dies, and then you’re waiting a long time because you’re with so many others who have dead batteries — so get it tested as soon as you can.”
If your battery is three years or older, Dacey said, you should get it checked.
Other winter-prep tips include making sure you have an ice scraper and a snow brush at hand, checking your vehicle’s fluid levels, and removing worn wiper blades.
It’s also worth having an emergency kit packed in your trunk.
“You can definitely make one of your own,” Dacey said.
“All you need is a bag or a bin, and you put in the things that you need. Extra blankets, of course, … some toques, some socks, mitts, matches, candles — anything that’s going to keep you warm.
“My favourite tip is to make sure your cell phone is charged, and think about investing in an extra battery.”