Winter storm disrupts highway travel in central Sask.

A winter storm travelling through central Saskatchewan began in earnest Tuesday morning, with driving restrictions following throughout the affected region.

As of 12:45 p.m., a warning was issued that motorists should keep off the Regina Bypass. earlier in the morning, drivers were also urged to stay off the roads near Kindersley, Lumsden, Outlook, Lucky Lake, Beechy and Leader.

As of 9:11 a.m., advisories were retracted for the Findlater and Central Butte areas. At 11:15 a.m., the restrictions around Rosetown were also lifted.

Environment Canada had issued the winter storm warnings the day before, covering areas south of Saskatoon to the U.S. border.

On Tuesday, meteorologist Mike Russo said in areas between Regina and Saskatoon, snowfall totals could be as high as 25 centimetres, or nine inches.

“The intensity should increase as the day goes on and as the system starts to progress eastward. It looks like the worst of it should actually be north of the Trans Canada Highway and south of the Yellowhead,” Russo said.

Russo said Regina should miss the brunt of the storm but could still expect up to 15 cm of snow.

Snow would not be the only thing to worry about.

“There are going to be strong winds that are developing on the backside of the system as it goes through,” Russo said.

“So, with the falling snow, and the strong winds, there’s going to be an issue with blowing snow, especially out in the highways.”

If possible, Russo recommended that people delay any travel plans.

“Better to be travelling tomorrow, as opposed to travelling today.”