Overnight blizzard creating hazardous conditions in southern Sask.

REGINA -

An overnight blizzard created dangerous conditions on southern Saskatchewan roads and affected services in some areas of the province.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) enacted several weather warnings on Wednesday morning, due to the large amount of snow and high winds.

The City of Regina and areas surrounding Fort Qu'Appelle and Moose Jaw were under a blizzard warning for most of the morning, but it was downgraded to a blowing snow advisory shortly before 11 a.m.

ECCC said the worst of the storm has passed, but strong northwest winds will persist throughout the rest of the day. The blowing snow is expected to come to an end on Wednesday evening.

Travellers are asked to be prepared to adjust travel plans and consider postponing non-essential travel.

Wind warnings remain in effect in surrounding Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle and Oxbow.

Check the Environment and Climate Change Canada website for updated watches and warnings.

PORTION OF HIGHWAY 1 REMAINS CLOSED

As of 11:15 A.M., a portion of Highway 1 west of Regina remains closed due to a collision. White Butte RCMP are on scene where both lanes of traffic are blocked and cars are backed up for several kilometres east of Pense.

The rest of the surrounding highways have reopened, but travel is not recommended.

Check the Highway Hotline for updated road closures.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

Regina Public Schools and the Regina Catholic School Division announced all student transportation is cancelled on Wednesday.

Schools in Regina remain open.

Regina Public Schools reminded parents to ensure children are dressed for the cold conditions.

The Prairie Valley School Division cancelled buses in a number of communities, including Bethune, Lumsden, Balgonie, Edenwold, White City, Emerald Ridge, McLean, Indian Head, Qu'Appelle, Pilot Butte, Grand Coulee and Pense.

UPDATES

More details to come…