Travel Advisory for Highway 17 Amid Severe Winter Weather
Lake Superior Provincial Park is currently under a snow squall warning, with travel along Highway 17 anticipated to face significant challenges. Current weather conditions are severe, with temperatures at -10°C, a rising barometer at 99.7, and high humidity levels at 91%. Despite calm winds, lake effect snow squalls are expected to persist throughout the morning, significantly impacting visibility and road safety.
Key Details:
- Hazardous Conditions: Travelers should anticipate severely reduced visibility due to heavy snow and blowing snow, with additional snowfall of 5 to 10 cm possible.
- Timing: The snow squalls are expected to continue through the morning before moving south in the afternoon.
- Travel Advice: Due to the variable weather conditions, which can shift from clear skies to heavy snow rapidly, drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution. Slow down, keep an eye out for tail lights ahead, and be prepared to stop.
Forecast Summary:
- Today: Expect flurries to end near noon, followed by a mix of sun and cloud with a 40 percent chance of flurries. The morning may see local blowing snow. Northwest winds at 30 km/h, gusting to 50, will become light by early afternoon. Temperatures will remain steady around -8°C, with wind chill factors reaching -21 in the morning and -14 in the afternoon. UV index is low at 1.
- Tonight: The weather will turn partly cloudy, with winds up to 15 km/h. The temperature is expected to drop to a low of -21°C, with wind chill values of -15 in the evening and plummeting to -25 overnight.
Implications for Thunder Bay Residents
Residents of Thunder Bay and the broader Northwestern Ontario region are advised to stay informed about the current snow squall warning affecting Lake Superior Provincial Park. Those planning to travel along Highway 17 should consider alternative plans or be prepared for potentially hazardous road conditions. This weather event underscores the importance of winter preparedness and the need for caution during severe snow squalls.
