Lake effect snow is forecasted to blanket midwestern Ontario on Tuesday.
Environment Canada has issued an orange-level snow squall warning for the entire area, predicting 20 to 40 centimetres of snow by day’s end. Under these conditions, snowfall will be heavy, greatly reducing visibility.
“Latest computer models suggest the strongest snow squall will come in off Lake Huron between Tiverton and Goderich and may extend well inland as far as Harriston to Stratford,” the national weather agency stated. “Peak snowfall rates of 5 centimetres per hour are possible. If this snow squall can lock in for a few hours, local snowfall amounts may exceed 40 centimetres.”
Compounding the situation will be strong westerly to northwesterly winds gusting between 70 and 80 kilometres an hour. This will lead to extensive blowing snow.
“Travel will likely be extremely hazardous. Visibility will likely be suddenly reduced to near zero at times. Road closures are possible,” Environment Canada said.
Drivers should prepare for rapidly changing and worsening road conditions.
“Leave enough time, room, and distance between you and other vehicles,” said West Region OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk. “Take your foot off that gas pedal. Clear off your entire vehicle of all ice and snow because if you can’t see it, how can you avoid it? Get to where you are going, but more importantly, get home safe to your families.”
Conditions are expected to gradually improve as squalls weaken late Tuesday afternoon.
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