Post by : Meena
Hassan
A harsh winter storm sweeping through the Prairies has been wreaking havoc on travel plans for residents in Winnipeg on Friday. At Richardson International Airport, passengers encountered significant flight delays and cancellations for the second straight day as an Alberta clipper moved through southern Manitoba.
Numerous flights across Canada, including routes to Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver, faced delays or outright cancellations. Jared and Laura Dennis returned to the airport following a rescheduled family trip to Cuba, only to learn their flights had been cancelled again. Jared lamented their first vacation in 12 years as “ruined.”
Travelers expressed their annoyance regarding last-minute cancellations and poor communication from the airlines. Fazia Aitzenti, who was also headed to Cuba, shared her frustration, saying, “I’m really mad… They cancel flights just before boarding and can’t confirm if we’ll be flying tomorrow.”
The Winnipeg Airports Authority recommended that travelers check their flight statuses prior to arriving at the airport and stay informed through their airlines.
Simultaneously, the city contended with blowing snow and reduced visibility conditions. Environment Canada issued warnings for decreased visibility throughout southern Manitoba until Saturday evening. On Thursday, the City of Winnipeg reported over 200 buses stranded in the snow, with an additional 11 buses affected on Friday morning.
Commuters, including Mark Travers, highlighted public transit delays, stating that the heavy snow makes travel challenging. However, some Winnipeggers were undeterred. Gerry Kovalik remarked, “This is the best thing in the world” for those with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Hannah and Brady Hallett, taking a stroll, noted that the harsh winter weather is simply part of life in Winnipeg and encouraged others to “get used to it” and “let it snow.”
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