Here's what to expect from major blizzard set to hit Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario

People in parts of Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario are being urged to stock up and hunker down before a massive winter storm blasts the three provinces, bringing with it the potential for power outages and school closures.

Environment Canada says blizzard conditions are expected to develop in southeastern Saskatchewan and southern Manitoba on Tuesday night, while snow in northwestern Ontario is expected to begin Wednesday morning and continue through Thursday into Friday morning.

Natalie Hasell, Environment and Climate Change Canada's warning preparedness meteorologist, gave an update on Tuesday, ahead of heavy snowfall and wind gusts that are expected to cause major travel disruptions and power outages, as well as possible school closures.

Here's what you can expect:

Snow will begin near the U.S. border in southeastern Saskatchewan and southern Manitoba by late Tuesday night. Northwestern Ontario could also see some snow as early as Tuesday night.

Hasell urged people in those southern parts of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to get any supplies they might need on Tuesday, including prescription medications, and at least three days' worth of food and water.

Information on emergency kits and household emergency plans can be found on the federal government's Get Prepared website.

Overnight into the early hours of Wednesday morning, "major blizzard conditions" will develop as the storm moves northward to Manitoba's Parkland and Interlake regions, as well as areas east of Lake Winnipeg.

The snow will be accompanied by strong northerly winds, with potential gusts of 70 to 90 km/h. That will likely lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Temperatures are expected to drop in the southern parts of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with a potential low of –6 C.

Environment Canada warned motorists that roads in affected areas could become treacherous due to snowfall accumulation and low visibility, and it said they should avoid travel, or expect delays if they attempt to travel.

Hasell suggested people should consider remote work options over the next few days.

Communities outside of the areas where snowfall warnings have been issued will also be affected by the storm. Although they will likely see lesser snowfall, "conditions will likely be difficult," including the potential for reduced visibility.

Winnipeg schools will advise parents late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning whether they will be open on Wednesday, said Ted Fransen, the superintendent of education/CEO of Pembina Trails School Division.