THUNDER BAY – ROADS – Winter has Ontario in its icy grip today, with cold temperatures, snow, and challenging driving conditions reported across the province. Here’s the latest weather and highway update for major routes, including Highway 11, 17, 105, 102, and the 401 in Toronto.
UPDATE: Highway 664 is closed as of 10:00 am on January 14 2025 due to a MVC. Details as we get them.
If you’re planning to travel, buckle up and be prepared—winter roads demand extra caution.
Highway 11: Geraldton, Greenstone Region, and Thunder Bay Area
The stretch of Highway 11 from Geraldton to Thunder Bay is frigid and snowy. Geraldton is experiencing light snow this morning, tapering off to cloudy skies with temperatures hovering around -15°C and wind chills near -28. Thunder Bay, meanwhile, starts the day at -19°C with a wind chill of -27 and clearing skies this afternoon. Risk of frostbite remains high throughout the region. Be cautious of slick conditions from flurries and lingering snow on the roadways.
Highway 17: Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie
Highway 17 offers a mixed bag of wintry challenges:
- Kenora to Dryden: Temperatures remain bitterly cold, with highs reaching only -17°C and wind chills down to -31. The area is seeing mainly sunny skies, but previous snow means roads could still be icy in spots.
- Sioux Lookout: A mix of sun and cloud persists, with light snow and a high of -18°C. Wind chills make it feel as low as -31 this morning, so frostbite risk is significant.
- Sault Ste. Marie: A winter weather advisory is in effect due to lake effect snow. Reduced visibility and slippery roads are hazards, with snowfall amounts of up to 5 cm possible. Conditions will improve by this afternoon, but caution is still advised.
Highway 105: Red Lake to Vermilion Bay
The Highway 105 corridor is frigid today, with temperatures struggling to climb past -17°C and wind chills remaining in the -30s. Snow and flurries are possible in the morning, making for icy and slick conditions. Prepare for frostbite risks and reduced visibility in some areas.
Highway 102: Thunder Bay to Kakabeka Falls
Conditions along Highway 102 are bitterly cold, with clearing skies this afternoon. Morning wind chills of -27 will ease slightly but will still feel like -19 by the afternoon. Be cautious of icy patches and keep an eye out for drifting snow.
Highway 401: Toronto to Surrounding Areas
Toronto and the 401 corridor are dealing with cloudy skies, gusty winds, and occasional flurries this morning. Temperatures are hovering around -8°C with wind chills near -16. Winds are gusting up to 60 km/h, creating the potential for blowing snow and reduced visibility in some areas. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and keep a safe distance between vehicles, especially during morning and evening commutes.
Traveller’s Winter Safety Kit
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is equipped with a winter safety kit. Here’s what you should pack:
- Warm Clothing and Blankets: Layers, gloves, and extra clothing to stay warm if stranded.
- Non-Perishable Food and Water: Granola bars, nuts, and bottles of water in case of delays.
- Flashlight and Batteries: Essential for nighttime or low-visibility conditions.
- First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies for emergencies.
- Shovel and Ice Scraper: To clear snow from around your vehicle.
- Sand or Kitty Litter: For traction if you get stuck on icy roads.
- Jumper Cables: To boost a dead battery in freezing temperatures.
- Phone Charger or Power Bank: Keep your phone charged to call for help.
- Emergency Flares or Reflective Triangles: To alert other drivers in case of breakdowns.
- Map or GPS Device: In case of technology failure or lack of service.
