Severe Cold and Snow Advisory for Armstrong, Gull Bay, and Surrounding Areas
Weather Alert: Armstrong, Gull Bay, Lake Nipigon – Wabakimi Park
Residents in Armstrong, Whitesand, Gull Bay, and the surrounding areas including Lake Nipigon and Wabakimi Park are advised of a severe weather advisory effective from early Monday, March 26, 2024. As of 4:41 AM EST, conditions are notably harsh with temperatures plummeting to -24°C under mainly clear skies.
Current Conditions and Forecast
- Temperature: The mercury reads a chilling -24°C, with the barometer stable at 101.3 kPa.
- Visibility: Clear skies presently, but becoming cloudy with snow, at times heavy, expected to start this morning.
- Snowfall: Anticipated amounts of 5 to 10 cm, with peak snowfall rates of 2 to 5 cm per hour.
- Wind: Calm winds now, turning east at 20 km/h by early afternoon, leading to a high of -2°C. Wind chill factors are significant, dropping to -28 this morning and -4 this afternoon.
Risks and Precautions
- Frostbite Risk: With wind chills reaching as low as -28°C, there’s a heightened risk of frostbite. Residents are urged to dress warmly and limit exposure.
- Travel Advisory: A winter weather travel advisory is in effect due to heavy snowfall and reduced visibility. Motorists should prepare for hazardous conditions and consider altering travel plans.
- Visibility: Reduced visibility due to heavy snow may lead to dangerous driving conditions. If you must travel, proceed with caution, and be ready for sudden stops.
Extended Forecast
- Tonight: Cloudy with a 60% chance of flurries and a risk of freezing drizzle. Wind chills dropping to -26 overnight.
- Tuesday: Cloudy with snow and potential blowing snow, increasing wind speeds, and a dramatic temperature drop to -20°C in the afternoon.
- Wednesday: A mix of sun and cloud with a slight chance of flurries, and a high of -15°C.
Safety Measures
The community is advised to stay vigilant, keep abreast of the latest weather updates, and employ safety measures during this period of severe weather. For road conditions and travel information, consult the Ministry of Transportation at ontario.ca/511 or via their Twitter account @511Ontario.
