Sault Ste. Marie – WEATHER – The Sault Ste. Marie region is currently under a special weather statement, announced at 7:30 AM today, signalling a significant shift in weather conditions that could impact residents and travellers throughout the region.
The city will be experiencing a variety of precipitation types, accompanied by a notable temperature plunge.
Weather Advisory Details: A Potent Low Pressure System
A strong low pressure system is poised to bring a complex array of precipitation types to the area, starting with showers this afternoon.
The transition to freezing rain or ice pellets tonight, followed by snow on Wednesday, presents a significant risk for a flash freeze as temperatures swiftly drop.
Total snow accumulations could range from 5 to 15 cm by Wednesday evening.
Precautions and Travel Advice
Given the expected hazardous travel conditions due to icy roads, snow, and the potential for a flash freeze, residents and travelers are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and consider postponing non-essential travel.
Preparing for rapid weather changes by ensuring vehicles are equipped for winter conditions and dressing warmly can help mitigate the risks associated with this dynamic weather event.
Current Weather Conditions: A Mild Start
As of this morning, the temperature in Sault Ste. Marie stands at 0°C under partly cloudy skies, with the barometer showing a decrease to 99.7 kPa and continuing to fall. High humidity at 91% and east-northeast winds at 14 km/h contribute to a wind chill of -4°C, making it feel noticeably colder than the actual temperature.
Today’s Forecast: A Wet and Windy Shift
The day will remain cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers by the afternoon as winds shift to the southeast, increasing to 20 km/h and gusting up to 40 km/h before tapering off later in the day. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 7°C, with a low UV index of 2 signalling minimal sunlight penetration through the cloud cover.
Tonight: A Rapid Transition to Freezing Conditions
Cloudiness will persist into the evening, with a 40 percent chance of rain showers before midnight. The situation is forecasted to escalate near midnight as rain transitions to freezing rain or ice pellets, driven by northerly winds at 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h.
Overnight temperatures are set to drop to -6°C, with wind chill factors reaching -9°C, hinting at the onset of more severe weather conditions.
Wednesday’s Weather: A Freezing Mix with Snow Accumulation
Wednesday promises a challenging mix of freezing rain or ice pellets changing to snow and causing local blowing snow in the morning.
Accumulations of snow and ice pellets are expected to range from 5 to 10 cm. The day will see northwest winds at 40 km/h gusting to 60 km/h, with temperatures plummeting to -12°C in the afternoon and wind chills making it feel as cold as -23°C. The UV index will remain low at 1.
Outlook for Thursday: Flurries and Clearing Skies
The weather is set to improve slightly by Thursday, with a mix of sun and cloud and a 60 percent chance of flurries, reaching a high of -7°C. The night promises clearer skies with a low of -10°C, signalling a temporary reprieve from the more severe conditions experienced earlier in the week.
Weather Trivia: The Phenomenon of Flash Freezes
Flash freezes occur when temperatures drop quickly, causing any standing water to freeze rapidly. This phenomenon can lead to hazardous conditions, especially on roads and sidewalks, making it a critical consideration for cities like Sault Ste. Marie when forecasting winter weather events.
