A snow squall watch issued earlier by Environment Canada has been upgraded to a warning.
The potential development of squalls this afternoon could bring between 15 and 20 cm of snow and near-zero visibility due to heavy and blowing snow.
Following is the full warning issued by Environment Canada:
Snow squall warning replaces snow squall watch for:
- Sault Ste. Marie - Superior East, Ont.
Current details:
Snow squalls developing this afternoon.
What:
Total snowfall accumulations of 15 to 20 cm.
Near-zero visibilities in heavy snow and blowing snow.
When:
Developing this afternoon and continuing into Friday morning.
Additional information:
Snow continues today as a low pressure system moves across northern Ontario. In its wake, lake effect snow squalls are expected to develop this afternoon. Wind gusts up to 80 km/h could produce near zero visibilities in heavy snow and blowing snow. Lake effect snow is expected to diminish to flurries Friday morning.
Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably; changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations.
If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to [email protected] or tweet reports using #ONStorm.