UPDATED

Icy road conditions were responsible for a number of crashes throughout Winnipeg on Sunday night, October 27, 2019.

Around 7:20 pm a multiple-vehicle crash happened in the westbound lanes of the Perimeter Highway as it crosses the Red River.

Police say a 21-year-old driver lost control of her vehicle and crashed into another vehicle which prompted the mass collisions.

RCMP said 16 vehicles were involved in the pile-up with several vehicles sustaining severe damage. Emergency crews on scene told News 4 that as many as 40 vehicles were involved as a ripple effect to the original crash due to the bridge icing.

RCMP closed the highway for several hours as crews worked to clear the mess. Eastbound traffic was allowed through but several vehicles had to be reminded to slow down by emergency crews as they crossed over the Red River.

STARS Air Ambulance was called to the scene around 7:35 and transported one person. Police say the 21-year-old driver and her 46-year-old passenger were taken to hospital. They are now in stable condition. Other people involved in the crashes suffered only minor injuries and did not require medical treatment.

Winnipeg Police took to social media to warn drivers of the dangerous conditions

As the evening progressed crashes continued to occur mostly near or on bridges and overpasses. On the St. Vital Bridge crossing the Red River another large pile-up occurred involving as many as 20 vehicles just after 8:00 pm.

The city says that crews began salting bridges and roadways Sunday evening in an effort to improve traction.

Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to at least 15 collisions Sunday night into Monday morning.

© News4.ca 2020