The entire province of Manitoba has been issued a special weather statement as cold weather makes its way to the Prairies.

Arctic air is moving into Manitoba this weekend, which will cover the province in a deep freeze just in time for Christmas.

Saturday, December 23 will be the last relatively mild day in Winnipeg before the highs drop down below -20°C. Wind chills of -35°C will be common over the weekend as well.

Northern Manitoba will be hit even harder, with highs at -28°C and windchills of -50°C possible.

Environment and Climate Change Canada recommends travelling with an emergency kit in your vehicle, as exposure to this type of cold can be extremely deadly.

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