Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning and winter storm watch for Winnipeg, the Red River Valley and much of southeastern Manitoba and a winter storm warning for Dauphin, Virden, The Pas and most of western Manitoba. 

An unpredictable Colorado Low will sweep across Manitoba in the coming days, bringing heavy snowfall and freezing rain.

Meteorologist Justin Shaer says communities in the Westman Region should expect 30-40 cm of snow by Monday evening, in addition to freezing rain and gusting winds. 

"We're expecting at least 25 cm to fall there overnight and into Monday evening, probably more," Shaer said. "In Dauphin we're expecting 20 to 25 cm tonight and then an additional 10 cm on Monday, and that's going to be pretty much the same for most communities close to the Saskatchewan border." 

Shaer says Minnedosa and Melita can also expect very high amounts of snowfall. 

Winnipeg and the Red River Valley will be under a snowfall warning into tomorrow and Shaer says if things don't change for the worst, that region can expect 10 to 15 cm of heavy snowfall, freezing drizzle and high winds. 

"We're not expecting any drastic changes but with these systems there are always modifications as they come closer to actually happening," Shaer said. "People just need to keep referring to their local forecast for details and keep an eye the timing and amount of snowfall." 

Environment Canada is also expecting heavy winds to cause blowing snow and visibility issues, especially on highways. Shaer says the best way to deal with that is to avoid driving completely. If you can't do that, he says to be safe and drive to conditions.

"As of right now, that Monday morning commute to work is going to be tough for a lot of people, especially outside of Winnipeg," Shaer said.

People can monitor highway conditions and closures on the Manitoba Government's website. 

The heavy snowfall in Manitoba is expected to dissipate by Monday evening.