Traveller’s Weather and Road Report for Ontario – December 29, 2024

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Weather Update - snow plow

Overview: Mild Conditions with Rain, Fog, and Snow Ahead

Today’s weather across Ontario brings a mix of mild temperatures, rain, fog, and occasional snow. Drivers should prepare for slippery roads, reduced visibility, and fluctuating weather conditions, especially in regions experiencing Rainfall Warnings or freezing fog. As always, check 511ON.ca for the latest road conditions and closure updates before heading out.


Southern Ontario: Rain and Fog Make for Slick Roads

  • Toronto and GTA: A Rainfall Warning remains in effect, with 20-30 mm of rain expected. Fog patches this morning are reducing visibility, so drivers on major routes like the 401, 403, and QEW should expect slick conditions and ponding water. Winds will pick up later this afternoon, potentially causing additional hazards.
  • Ottawa: Freezing fog this morning is limiting visibility to 0.4 km. Rain arrives this afternoon, with 5-10 mm expected. The 417 and 416 corridors may see localized flooding, so drive with caution.

Northeastern Ontario: Foggy Mornings and Wet Roads

  • Sudbury: A Rainfall Warning is in effect, with 20-30 mm of rain starting late this afternoon and continuing overnight. Melting snow may exacerbate water pooling. Drivers on the Highway 17 Trans-Canada route should prepare for slippery and potentially flooded conditions.
  • Sault Ste. Marie: Overcast skies dominate the day with rain or snow arriving tonight. Fog patches this morning reduce visibility, and winds will pick up overnight. The Highway 17 corridor may become slick later tonight.

Northwestern Ontario: Freezing Fog and Flurries

  • Thunder Bay: Cloudy skies with fog patches this morning and a high of 3°C. Fog will linger overnight, and temperatures drop to -5°C. Drivers on the Thunder Bay Expressway and Highway 11/17 should anticipate foggy conditions and frost on bridges.
  • Dryden and Vermilion Bay: Dense fog is limiting visibility to 0.6 km, with overcast skies and a high near 0°C. Fog patches persist overnight, with temperatures falling to -7°C. Expect slick conditions on Highway 17 in this region.
  • Kenora and Lake of the Woods: Freezing fog reduces visibility to 0.4 km this morning. Overcast skies dominate, with temperatures steady near -1°C and falling to -6°C overnight. The Highway 17 Trans-Canada route may have icy stretches and low visibility.
  • Sioux Lookout and Pickle Lake: Misty and overcast conditions dominate, with a high of -1°C and wind chills near -5°C. Fog patches persist tonight, with a low of -6°C. Highway 599 and connecting routes could be slick overnight.

Key Travel Recommendations

  • Rainfall Warnings: Sudbury, Toronto, and parts of Southern Ontario. Drivers should watch for water pooling, slick roads, and localized flooding near low-lying areas or river crossings.
  • Freezing Fog: Thunder Bay, Kenora, and areas in Northwestern Ontario. Expect reduced visibility—turn on headlights and maintain a safe following distance.
  • Fog Clearing Timeline: Fog patches across many regions, including Sudbury and Sioux Lookout, are expected to dissipate near noon but may return in the evening.

Pro Tip: Always check 511ON.ca for real-time updates on road conditions, closures, and detours. Winter weather can change rapidly—drive safe and stay informed!

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