Armstrong – WEATHER – Residents of Armstrong and Whitesand are bracing for a significant snow event as Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning effective early Tuesday morning.
The communities, along with travellers on Highway 527, are advised to prepare for challenging conditions as heavy snowfall and blowing snow are forecasted to dramatically impact the area.
Current Weather Snapshot
As of 6:30 AM EST, light snowfall marks the beginning of the event, with temperatures at -9°C. The atmospheric pressure is steady at 100.2 kPa, and a high humidity level of 90% adds to the weight of the cold air.
Winds from the north-northeast at 11 km/h create a wind chill that makes it feel like -14°C, signalling the onset of a harsh winter day.
Today’s Forecast: Intense Snowfall and Wind
Tuesday promises a day filled with heavy snowfall, expecting accumulations between 15 to 25 cm. The snow, at times heavy, accompanied by local blowing snow, poses a significant risk for those outside.
North winds will increase to 30 km/h, gusting up to 50 km/h, causing temperatures to plummet to -20°C in the afternoon. With such conditions, the wind chill is expected to reach a biting -32°C, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed to the elements.
Tonight: Continued Snow and Dangerous Cold
The snowfall is expected to continue into the night, with an additional 2 to 4 cm of accumulation. The persistent north wind, maintaining speeds of 30 km/h and gusts up to 50 km/h, will further reduce temperatures to -26°C. The wind chill will drop even further to -38°C overnight, maintaining a high risk of frostbite for those without proper protection.
Outlook for Wednesday and Beyond
Wednesday morning may start with a 30 percent chance of flurries and local blowing snow, but conditions are expected to clear by the afternoon.
Despite the sun, northwest winds of 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h will keep the high at a chilly -17°C, with wind chill values making it feel as cold as -38°C in the morning and -27°C in the afternoon. The risk of frostbite continues, with a UV index forecasted to be low at 1.
The rest of the week shows a gradual improvement in conditions, with Thursday bringing sunny skies and a high of -13°C, though nighttime could see a 30 percent chance of flurries with a low of -19°C.
Weather Warning Details
The snowfall warning outlines the potential for 15 to 20 cm of accumulation, with some areas possibly reaching up to 25 cm. Snowfall rates of 3 to 5 cm per hour could significantly reduce visibility, complicating travel and outdoor activities.
The warning emphasizes the importance of being prepared for sudden visibility reductions and challenging road conditions.
Safety Tips and Preparations
Residents and travellers are urged to adjust their plans accordingly, ensuring they have emergency kits and supplies in case of travel delays or power outages. The heavy snowfall and blowing snow call for extra caution on roads and highways, with the potential for rapid changes in visibility.
Weather Trivia: The Impact of Lake Superior
Armstrong and Whitesand, situated relatively close to Lake Superior, can experience enhanced snowfall due to lake-effect snow. This phenomenon occurs when cold air moves over the warmer waters of the lake, picking up moisture and depositing it as snow on the leeward shores, contributing to the significant accumulations forecasted in these regions.
