Overview of the Incident
Two multi-vehicle crashes near Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, prompted the temporary closure of sections of the Trans-Canada Highway, including Highway 1 and Highway 75, on Friday evening. Manitoba RCMP confirmed responders were at the scene as crews worked to clear wreckage and manage ongoing traffic disruption. The weather and road conditions were cited as the primary contributing factors, with drivers faced with slick surfaces and limited visibility as the fall into evening persisted.
Locations Affected
Authorities indicated that Highway 1 was affected in the Headingley corridor where the Trans-Canada Highway runs parallel to the Winnipeg area. In addition, nearby Highway 75, which connects regional communities to the broader trans-provincial route, was also impacted as responders facilitated detours and temporary closures to ensure safety. By 6:30 p.m., the highway network remained restricted in places while crews conducted investigations and moved vehicles off the roadway.
Impact on Traffic and Travel Plans
The closures disrupted an important corridor used by commuters, commercial traffic, and travelers moving east-west across Manitoba. Drivers were urged to seek alternate routes or delay travel if possible, and to monitor official updates from the RCMP and Manitoba’s transportation authorities. Local detours were set up to keep traffic flowing where feasible, though conditions remained challenging during the evening hours as weather patterns persisted.
What We Know About the Crashes
Details regarding the number of injuries or the exact causes of the crashes had not been released at the time of reporting. RCMP and emergency responders conducted standard accident scene procedures, including traffic control, vehicle stabilization, and the collection of witness statements. Investigators will likely review road conditions, vehicle speeds, and driver behavior as part of their ongoing assessment of the incident.
Weather and Road Conditions
Frigid temperatures, possible ice, and accumulating snow in parts of Manitoba contribute to hazardous driving conditions along the Trans-Canada Highway and surrounding routes. Drivers are reminded to slow down, maintain a safe following distance, and adjust to reduced visibility. Road crews may implement salt and sand treatments, but travel can remain treacherous until conditions improve and lanes can be safely reopened.
Safety Tips for Drivers
- Check for real-time road reports before departing and during long trips.
- Give yourself extra travel time and keep an emergency kit in the vehicle.
- Avoid stopping on the highway unless necessary; use designated turnarounds or exit ramps.
- Reduce speed, use headlights, and stay in lane until it is safe to change lanes.
What’s Next
Officials expect to provide more information as crews complete their on-site assessments. The transit of the Trans-Canada Highway through Manitoba will continue to be monitored, with updates issued through RCMP briefings and provincial transportation advisories. Motorists planning trips across Manitoba should anticipate delays and have contingency plans in place.
