The City of Winnipeg has mobilized its snow clearing fleet to tackle major streets following a substantial winter storm. In a significant service disruption, all garbage and recycling collection scheduled for Thursday, December 18, 2025, has been officially cancelled.
City Crews Focus on Priority Routes
As of the morning of December 18, municipal crews are concentrating their efforts on plowing and sanding primary and bus routes across the city. This standard procedure ensures that major arteries for emergency vehicles, transit, and essential travel are cleared first during significant snowfall events.
The operation involves a full deployment of the city's snow removal equipment. Residents are advised to exercise caution, provide ample space for working plows, and consider delaying non-essential travel if possible while this initial phase of clearing is completed.
Waste Collection Services Halted
Due to the severe weather conditions and to allow plows unimpeded access to residential streets, the city has announced a full cancellation of garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection for the day.
Residents whose collection was scheduled for Thursday should not place their carts at the curb. The city will provide updates on a potential makeup collection day or advise residents to hold their waste until their next scheduled collection date. This service suspension is a standard protocol during major snow events to ensure both crew safety and efficient snow clearing.
Broader Storm Impacts Across Manitoba
The service interruptions in Winnipeg are part of wider disruptions caused by the same storm system moving through the province. The storm has also led to numerous highway closures across Manitoba, as reported by provincial authorities.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to check the latest road conditions before any travel outside the city. The combination of heavy snow, reduced visibility, and blowing snow continues to create hazardous driving conditions throughout the region.
City officials remind Winnipeggers to stay updated through official municipal channels for further announcements regarding snow clearing progress, residential plowing schedules, and the resumption of regular waste collection services.
