Parts of Newfoundland and Saskatchewan under deep blanket of snow

Residents across much of eastern and southern Newfoundland and sections of the Prairies will continue to trudge through deep snow today.

Newfoundland is being lashed by a blizzard that could dump up to 70 centimetres of snow in some areas before it moves out over the ocean.

Environment Canada said the Avalon and Burin peninsulas were expected to see the worst of the storm overnight before it spread to the Bonavista Peninsula.

The snow, combined with strong winds, could create near-zero visibility in some areas and cause even more flight cancellations at St. John’s International Airport.

Blizzard warnings are posted from Alberta east to Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan near Regina, with up to 30 centimetres of snow expected in some spots. Gusty winds, heavy and blowing snow prompted a winter storm warning from Regina and regions east to the Manitoba boundary.

The RCMP said there was reduced visibility and icy roads across southern Saskatchewan and have urged drivers to stay off the highways until the storm passes.

In Newfoundland, RCMP Sgt. Marc Coulombe says there had been several accidents on slippery roads across the Avalon Peninsula, but nothing serious.

In addition to flight cancellations, intercity bus service has also been disrupted and some schools and businesses planned to remain closed today.