Batten down the hatches and get your shovels ready, Saultites!
Environment Canada has issued both a snow squall watch and a wind warning for the Sault and area starting this evening.
Snowfall amounts of 15 cm or more could be seen by Monday evening, with winds of up to 90 km/h expected early this evening into tonight.
Both alerts are below:
Snow squall watch in effect for:
- Sault Ste. Marie - St. Joseph Island
- Searchmont - Montreal River Harbour - Batchawana Bay
Snow squalls threatening this evening into Monday
Lake effect snow bands off of Lake Superior are expected to develop this evening in a strong northwesterly flow of much colder air from the Arctic. Snow squalls are expected to continue Monday before slowing weakening Monday night.
There is potential for local snowfall amounts of 15 cm or more per 12 hours in the strongest snow squalls, along with sudden near zero visibility in bursts of heavy snow and blowing snow. Total snowfall accumulations could approach or exceed 25 cm by the end of the event.
Strong northwesterly winds are expected near Lake Superior in the wake of the cold front this evening which will reduce visibilities in blowing snow at times.
Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably; changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common. Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you become stranded in a vehicle do not leave. The vehicle offers a form of protection from the cold. A single person walking through the snow is harder to find than a stranded car or truck.
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.
Wind warning in effect for:
- Sault Ste. Marie - St. Joseph Island
- Searchmont - Montreal River Harbour - Batchawana Bay
Strong winds gusts that may cause damage are expected.
West or northwesterly winds gusting to 90 km/h are expected early this evening with the passage of a cold front.
The winds are expected to remain strong and gusty throughout the night, easing slightly by Monday morning.
Isolated power outages are possible.
Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. Gusty winds can damage soft shelters, tents and awnings at outdoor events. Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage.
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.