THUNDER BAY – Environment Canada has issued a “Flash Freeze” warning for Thunder Bay and region. Temperatures plunging suddenly to well below zero this afternoon resulting in sudden freezing.
A low pressure system over Northwestern Ontario will swing a sharp Arctic cold front through the Lakehead area near Thunder Bay early this afternoon. A mix of rain and wet snow and temperatures a couple degrees above freezing this morning will suddenly be replaced by sharply colder Arctic air in the wake of the cold front. Temperatures are expected to quickly plunge to the minus 10 degree mark by late this afternoon. As a result surfaces will freeze and untreated surfaces may quickly become icy and slippery as water from the rain and melting snow suddenly freezes.
Motorists and pedestrians in the Lakehead area should be prepared for sudden hazardous travelling conditions due to roads and sidewalks suddenly becoming icy as temperatures plummet this afternoon.
Meanwhile over northern parts of Northeastern Ontario the snowfall warning remains in effect with snow..Heavy at times..Expected tonight as the low pressure system moves closer to that area and deepens. About 15 cm of snow is expected tonight before tapering off to light snow or flurries Friday morning.
Winter travelling conditions are expected in Northeastern Ontario with low visibility in heavier snow and accumulating snow being the main culprits.