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People are being warned to be aware of changing weather conditions this week as rain, wind, melting snow, and then ice and snow could impact roads and sidewalks over the next few days.
Temperatures are expected to rise to 3 C on Wednesday, with winds up to 50 km/h. Thursday could see temperatures closer to 5 C with rain showers. Friday is a return to flurries with a high of –2 C.
In a video posted to X on Tuesday, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Sgt. Ed Sanchuk asked drivers to be mindful of the rain and heavy winds.
“Be alert, be cautious and be aware,” he said, addressing drivers.
“It’s not an opportunity to drive through those large puddles on our roadways to see how much splashing can you get because you never know what lies beneath that water. There may be some debris which may cause you to lose control or you may hydroplane your vehicle.”
Sanchuk also urged drivers to leave enough stopping distance behind the car in front of them, turn on the entire headlight system and reduce speed.
“There may be potential for a flash freeze. I’m hoping that’s not coming our way. But again, be prepared and always expect the unexpected,” he said.
“I’m making my way home to my family. I hope you’re doing the same.”
‘Stay off all ice’
Following temperature changes from the Alberta clipper earlier this month, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has also warned people to stay away from waterways.
The GRCA has said changes in temperatures will impact ice stability and people are encouraged to “exercise extreme caution around all local waterways and is strongly advised to stay off all ice”.
“Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Recreational users near local waterways should be aware of the current conditions and exercise additional caution,” the GRCA said.
