Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre is warning Manitobans to stay off frozen waterways as early winter conditions have created thin and unpredictable ice across the province.
The centre says ice forming on rivers, lakes and drainage ditches may look stable but is still in its early stages and may not safely hold people, pets, snowmobiles or vehicles. Recent temperature swings have contributed to inconsistent ice thickness, increasing the risk of breaking through.
Activities such as walking, skating, skiing, sledding and snowmobiling on natural ice surfaces — including rivers, lakes, floodways, retention ponds and ditches — are being strongly discouraged. Officials note that even within communities, ice conditions can vary widely and may be unsafe.
Residents living near waterways are urged to take extra caution and ensure children and pets stay away from the ice.
The province will continue monitoring conditions as freeze-up progresses.
