Potent blast of October snow hits Prairies with 40+ cm

Thursday, October 6, 2016, 10:16 AM - Snowfall and winter storm warnings cover parts of Saskatchewan and Manitoba as the first dose of winter is giving residents in Saskatchewan and Manitoba a taste of travel troubles.

"Bundle up and take your time ... It's cold, wet and slushy with more snow to come," says The Weather Network's Deb Matejicka.

An additional 5 cm of snow is possible across western and central Saskatchewan Thursday before tapering off to a few flurries Thursday night, Environment Canada said in a statement.

Parts of northern Manitoba, however, could see as much as 50 cm of snow before the storm moves out.

FALL IS BACK: After a hot summer what can Canadians expect from fall? Find out with The Weather Network’s 2016 Fall Forecast | FORECAST & MAPS HERE

Drivers are being advised to adjust travel plans if necessary and prepare for changing driving conditions with accumulating snow and reduced visibilities in snow and blowing snow. 

Although a Weather Network poll showed that 75 percent of Canadians that participated are NOT ready for winter (and never are), this most recent blast is just a stark reminder of what's to come. Are YOU ready for winter?