A significant winter weather event is set to impact parts of northeastern Ontario as persistent snow squalls are forecast from Friday into Saturday, bringing heavy snowfall and dangerously reduced visibility
Travellers are being advised to reconsider plans this weekend as persistent snow squalls threaten road closures and near-zero visibility across parts of northeastern Ontario.
Persistent snow squalls are expected to develop, and under the snow squall bands, visibility will be significantly reduced due to the heavy snow, and snow will quickly accumulate.
Total local snowfall amounts of 20 to 40 cm are possible with significantly reduced visibility in heavy snow and local blowing snow Friday into Saturday.
Lake effect snow will be accompanied by southwesterly winds gusting 40 to 60 km/h. As a result, blowing snow will further reduce visibility.
Conditions are expected to improve Saturday afternoon. There is uncertainty with the exact locations of snow squalls that will develop and snowfall accumulations may be quite variable across the region.
Travel may be hazardous. Visibility may be suddenly reduced to near zero at times. Roads and walkways may be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. Road closures are possible. Consider rescheduling travel and outdoor activities.
Prepare for the possibility of quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.
A Snow Squall Watch is in effect for:
- North Bay
- Powassan – Mattawa
- West Nipissing – French River
