Drivers were advised to use caution on Manitoba roadways Monday morning due to treacherous conditions, with zero visibility, blowing snow and ice-covered highways in some areas, said RCMP.
Multiple highways were closed due to the poor conditions. RCMP said at least 30 crashes were reported by early Monday afternoon.
"We have whiteout conditions out there so you end up with a big cloud of snow and people can't see where they're going," said Sgt. Line Karpish from RCMP.
RCMP said they've received numerous reports of vehicles in ditches. Three semi trucks collided west of PR 332 on the westbound lanes of Highway 1.
Around 10 a.m. Monday, two semi trucks hit the road closure barricades in Headingley, despite the presence of a police vehicle with its lights on near the gate, said RCMP. Flying debris from the crash damaged the police vehicle. The officers were not hurt.
RCMP urged people who had to drive to reduce their speed and use caution. Drivers were also urged to be careful when driving near tow truck operators and emergency personnel at collision scenes.
Inside Winnipeg, crews were clearing and sanding major streets.
Outside the city, Highway 1 West was closed from Headingley to Portage la Prairie Monday morning.
Highway 75 from Winnipeg to the U.S. border and the interstate to Grand Forks was also closed Monday morning.
More information on Manitoba roads is available by calling 511, or by going online to the province's website.
