Wind warning issued for southwestern Manitoba Saturday

Strong winds are set to hit parts of southern Manitoba, with Environment Canada warning gusts may cause damage and power outages in the area this weekend.

The federal agency has issued a wind warning for the southwestern partof the province as well as southern Saskatchewan for Saturday afternoon, including the City of Brandon and neighbouring areas.

It said a fast-moving Alberta clipper a stormthat develops east of the Rocky Mountains will lead to sustained winds of up to 70 kilometres per hour, with gusts possibly hitting 100 kilometres per hour by midday and into the early evening.

"Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur," Environment Canada warns."Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage."

The agency said the winds may lead to power outages and fallen tree branches.

In Manitoba, the warnings are in effect for:

• Virden - Souris.
• Brandon - Neepawa - Carberry - Treherne.
• Melita - Boissevain - Turtle Mountain Provincial Park.
• Killarney - Pilot Mound - Manitou.
• Minnedosa - Riding Mountain National Park.
• Ste. Rose - McCreary - Alonsa - Gladstone.

Environment Canada said winds will ease late Saturday evening.

Manitoba Hydro also issued an advisory on X Friday, warning of the possibility of outages related to high winds.

The utility is asking people to report outages by phone at 1-888-624-9376.