THUNDER BAY – The big news story today is likely going to be weather conditions on the local roads and highways across the region. Environment Canada has ended its weather advisories for Thunder Bay, but warnings are still in effect for much of the area between Thunder Bay and Kenora
For the Dryden, Kenora and Ear Falls areas, Environment Canada states, “Significant snow ending this morning then redeveloping tonight”.
The weather service states, “A pair of Colorado lows are targeting Northwestern Ontario with significant snowfalls. The first low is over Western Lake Superior early this morning and moving northeast. As much as 15 cm of the white stuff will have fallen across the district before the snow at times heavy tapers off to a few flurries in the wake of the first low this morning”.
The affected areas will therefore now include Kenora and Ear Falls where 20 cm or more of the white stuff is expected before the heavy snow tapers to a few flurries on Saturday. With this second low following a shifted track areas from a line from Atikokan to Armstrong and eastward will likely see lesser amounts. Although snowfall totals are still expected to reach near 15 cm by late Saturday.
Road conditions are going to be impacted greatly due to the snowfall amounts.
The Ministry of Transportation report that while all roads are open, travel conditions are not the best. Keep up to date on the latest conditions on “Roads Now”. http://netnewsledger.com/?page_id=3948
Hazardous winter driving conditions are expected due to low visibilities from snow and local blowing snow and accumulating snow from both Colorado low pressure systems. Untreated surfaces may quickly become icy and dangerous. Travellers should adjust their plans accordingly.