Whether it’s your first or fiftieth winter in Manitoba, this season can be both charming and challenging. With temperatures dropping and snow blanketing the province, being prepared isn’t just smart – it’s essential. From winterizing your wardrobe to supporting your mental health, we’ve got you covered. So, get cozy and read our complete guide on how to prepare for the winter ahead.

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‍Prepping for the weather  

Manitoba’s winters are a magical experience, but they come with weather-related challenges. With temperatures often dropping below -20°C (-4°F), added windchill and frequent snowfall, preparation is key to enjoying the season safely and comfortably.

Checking the weather forecast

Before heading outside, make it a habit to check the weather forecast so you’re well-informed about temperature drops, snowfall and potential storms in your area. Whether planning a commute or outdoor activities, keeping up with local forecasts ensures you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way.  

One of winter’s underrated dangers is the wind chill. The wind chill index represents how cold it feels when you’re exposed to the wind.  For example, if the temperature is –10°C, but the wind chill is –20, it means exposed skin will feel as though it’s –20°C. Your risk of frostbite rises rapidly when the wind chill is below –27.  

In most weather apps, wind chill will often be indicated with the phrase “feels like.” Take wind chill seriously – an otherwise-cool day can be bone-chilling if the wind chill is low enough.

Dressing for success

Dressing appropriately for the weather not only keeps you warm, dry and comfortable but also protects against hypothermia and frostbite.  

• Layer up  

1. Base layer: Opt for moisture-wicking materials designed to keep sweat away from your skin to maintain warmth, including thermals or lightweight Merino wool. Avoid tight clothing that can affect your circulation.  
2. Mid-layer: Choose warm fabrics that trap body heat such as fleece or down.
3. Outer layer: Wear a waterproof winter jacket to shield against snow and wind.  

• Choose winter boots

1. Insulation: Look for waterproof boots with synthetic insulation, such as Thinsulate. It’s recommended to choose a rating of at least 200-400 grams for moderately cold temperatures.
2. Traction: Consider non-slip, rubber soles since they provide the best grip on slippery surfaces. For extra grip on particularly icy days, consider attaching ice cleats or spikes to your boots. These accessories add an extra layer of traction and are easy to remove when no longer needed.  

• Protect your extremities  

1. Gloves vs. mittens: Wear gloves for better dexterity when working with your hands or opt for mittens for extra warmth by keeping your fingers together.
2. Head and neck protection: Use a scarf, neck warmer or balaclava, and pair it with a winter hat or toque that fully covers your ears.
3. Warm socks: Choose thick socks made from a blend of natural and synthetic materials such as wool, silk, acrylic or polyester for optimal insulation and moisture management.

Getting around

One of the biggest challenges of a Manitoba winter is getting around. Whether you’re driving, taking the bus or walking, we’ve got simple tips to ensure your journey is safe and that you’re prepared for all conditions.

Leaving early

The most important winter transportation tip is leaving early. With icy, snow-packed roads, everything runs slower in the winter. Following the same schedule you use in the warmer months will make you late more than a few times.

Driving and parking

Manitoba 511 provides up-to-date information on road closures, weather forecasts, route details and more. After creating an account, you can set custom routes and receive text messages or emails about road closures and hazards before you head out. You can even check highway cams for certain areas, making Manitoba 511 especially useful when you’re travelling outside Winnipeg.

When winter weather hits, your summer tires will no longer be sufficient. According to Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), stopping distance doubles on wet pavement, triples on packed snow and can be up to 10 times longer on icy roads. And ice on roads at –1°C is twice as slippery as ice at –18°C. Winter tires offer significantly better traction during colder months. Although they can be costly, MPI offers a winter tire financing plan to help you purchase a set.

After heavy snowfalls, expect the streets to be plowed. If you’re parking on a residential street, be sure to know your snow zone so you can move your vehicle and allow the plows to do their jobs.  

Use the Know Your Zone app for up-to-date information on snow zones in Winnipeg, including:

• current winter parking bans.

• the designated snow zone associated with your address.

• the residential snow clearing schedule based on your snow zone.

• a colour-coded map of current snow-clearing activities.

To help prevent your vehicle’s battery from dying when parking it outside, you can have a block heater installed.  Plugging in a block heater helps keep the oil and coolant warm and reduces stress on your battery.

Plugging in your heater is especially important if your car is going to be outside for more than a few hours in extreme cold – while you’re at work or overnight, for example.

However, don’t plug in your block heater if you’re parking in a garage or other indoor space. The temperature isn’t low enough to affect your car, and a bad cable can start a fire.

Taking public transit

For those relying on transit, being prepared is more important than ever in the winter months.

Ensure you use Navigo to plan your route – it shows how many buses you’ll need to take and the approximate timing of the schedule. But as weather can be unpredictable, be prepared to stand outside during any delays – and note that not all bus stops have shelters, and not all shelters are heated.

Walking and biking

As you’ll be exposed directly to the elements, dressing properly for walking or cycling is critical. This guide from the Green Action Centre can help you prepare if you want to try the winter cycling life.

When walking on particularly icy routes, you may want to wear grips on your footwear or walk with hiking poles to stabilize yourself. Every winter, hundreds of Manitobans are hospitalized due to slips or falls from ice.  

‍Feeling your best

Winter’s short days, long nights and increased time spent indoors can affect both your mental and physical well-being.  

Taking care of your mind

It’s easy to feel sluggish or experience the “winter blues” during the colder months. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can cause feelings of sadness, lethargy or even depression. Here are simple strategies for maintaining your mental health:

• Use a SAD lamp: Light therapy can help to improve your mood and energy levels by simulating the sunlight that’s missing during the winter months.  

• Embrace cozy: Channel the Danish concept of “hygge” and surround yourself with soft blankets, warm drinks and comforting lighting.  

• Pursue joy: Watch your favourite movies, read cherished books or play fun games – even small joys make a big impact.

• Get sunlight when you can: Bundle up and go for a short walk during daylight hours or even sit by a window to soak up the sun whenever possible.

• Plan mini getaways: A weekend trip or staycation gives you something to look forward to while helping you recharge and relax.  

• Explore new hobbies: Try a creative outlet, such as painting, knitting or baking to help spark joy and keep your mind engaged.

• Practice mindfulness: Incorporate daily meditation exercises to center yourself and reduce stress.  

Taking care of your body

Maintaining good health can be challenging in the winter – but it’s just as important as it is throughout the rest of the year.

• Eat nutritious foods: While comfort foods can be tempting during the colder months, maintaining a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is key to staying healthy. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats to support your immune system.

• Stay active: Regular exercise is essential to keeping you healthy and happy. Read more in our blog post, “Getting into gear during the winter months.”

• Prevent illness: Winter is the peak season for colds and flu, as cold temperatures drive people indoors, creating ideal conditions for viruses to spread easily. Ensure you are up to date on your vaccines, and stock up on essentials like over-the-counter medications, soups, herbal teas and tissues. If you feel unwell, prioritize rest and hydration to recover faster and stay at home to prevent spreading illnesses. Get tough on germs by washing your hands and wiping high-touch surfaces regularly.

• Be kind to your skin: Winter’s cold, dry weather can be harsh on your skin. And surprisingly, you can also get sunburned during the winter months, as snow and ice act as a reflective surface for the sun’s rays.  

1. Sun protection: Use sunscreen and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
2. Moisturize daily: Apply a rich moisturizer to replenish moisture stripped away from the dry air.  
3. Lip care: Use a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips and protect from the sun’s harmful rays.
4. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and consider using a humidifier to combat dry indoor air.

• Protect against carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning: Carbon monoxide can be a silent killer. Learn how to protect yourself and your family with tips from the Canada Safety Council.

‍Finding fun activities

Discover Manitoba’s winter wonderland with these must-visit destinations and activities, perfect for embracing the season.    

• Festival du Voyageur: Western Canada’s largest winter festival celebrating Francophone, Metis and First Nations history.

1. Enjoy stunning snow sculptures, live music, delicious food and activities for all ages.  

• Riding Mountain National Park: Manitoba’s only national park, which can be accessed by the public year-round.

1. Try fat biking, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding and skating through numerous trails in the park. Locations in the area offer winter equipment rentals, including Friends of Riding Mountain National Park and Elkhorn Resort.

• The Forks: A historic site at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, home to a vibrant food hall, local shops and plenty of indoor and outdoor activities.  

1. Skate or walk the Red River Mutual Trail, featuring beautiful wintery views and architecturally stunning warming huts. The Forks also features the Plaza Skating Rink which is located under the canopy between the Forks Market and the Johnston Terminal as well as an Olympic-sized skating rink located adjacent to the CN Stage.
2. Enjoy tobogganing at the Toboggan Run which goes off a small path behind the parkade.  
3. Stroll around outdoors and marvel at the outdoor festive lights throughout the site, including a lit archway – perfect for photo opportunities!
4. Stop in at the Forks Market for a hot drink or delicious meal as well as shopping at the local boutiques.  

• Light shows: Stunning light displays that capture the magic of the winter season.

1. Visit Zoo Lights at Assiniboine Park Zoo and stroll along walking paths featuring festive light displays.  
2. Experience Manitoba’s largest drive-through light show at Canad Inns Winter Wonderland. Located at Red River Exhibition Park, enjoy a series of themed light tunnels and scenes from the comfort of your vehicle.  

With so many things to do, you don’t have to let the winter chill keep you cooped in!