Snowy Skies Over Kenora: Alberta Clipper Brings Winter Travel Challenges

The Kenora – Grassy Narrows – Whitedog region is under a Winter Weather Travel Advisory as an Alberta Clipper sweeps through Northwestern Ontario. Snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 cm, combined with reduced visibility in heavy snow, are expected this morning and into the afternoon. With slippery roads and gusty winds, travel conditions may be tricky, so drivers should prepare for slower commutes and exercise caution.

Tuesday Morning: Snow and Freezing Drizzle Create a Sloppy Mix

As of 6:00 AM CST, light snow and drifting snow are already affecting the Kenora area. The temperature is -10.9°C, with a humidity level of 91%, and a falling barometric pressure of 99.2 kPa, signaling the arrival of the Alberta Clipper. Winds from the south-southwest are blowing at 14 km/h, creating a wind chill of -18°C. Visibility remains fairly high at 24 km, but expect it to drop significantly in heavy snow bands.

Periods of snow are expected to intensify this morning, with an additional 5 cm of accumulation and a risk of freezing drizzle, making roadways slick. Winds will increase dramatically, shifting to the northwest at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h by mid-morning. Temperatures will rise slightly, reaching a high of -1°C by this afternoon, but wind chills will linger between -20°C in the morning and -8°C in the afternoon.

Tonight: Blustery and Cold with Lingering Flurries

Snow will taper off to flurries by this evening, with an additional 30% chance of light snow overnight. Winds from the northwest will remain strong, blowing at 30 km/h and gusting to 50 km/h, before easing to light winds by morning. Temperatures will plummet to a low of -17°C, with a biting wind chill of -22°C overnight.

Wednesday and Beyond: A Colder Trend

Wednesday will bring a mix of sun and cloud to the Kenora region, with temperatures staying cold. The high will reach -10°C, but wind chills will make it feel like -22°C in the morning and -15°C in the afternoon. By the evening, cloudy periods and a 60% chance of flurries will dominate, with a low of -9°C.

Thursday promises slightly warmer weather, with a high of -3°C and a mix of sun and cloud. However, the chance of flurries persists at 30%, and temperatures will drop to -16°C overnight.

Historic Temperatures for January 28

Historically, Kenora has seen both extremes for this date. The record high temperature was 4.5°C, set in 2001, while the record low plummeted to -39.4°C, recorded in 1996. Today’s weather lands somewhere in between, though the gusty winds and snow will certainly add to the drama!

Travel Safety: How to Navigate Snowy Roads

Snow and blowing winds make for challenging driving conditions. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe:

• Slow down and take your time: Rushing on slippery roads increases the risk of accidents.
• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility for yourself and others.
• Watch for freezing drizzle: It can create invisible ice patches on roadways.
• Maintain a safe following distance to avoid sudden braking on slick surfaces.

If you don’t have to travel, today might be a great day to enjoy the snow from indoors with a hot drink in hand!

Wardrobe Check: Stay Warm and Dry

With wind chills dipping to -20°C this morning, warm layers are a must. A heavy winter coat, gloves, a scarf, and a toque will help you combat the biting wind. Waterproof boots are essential for trudging through snow and slush. If you’re outdoors for extended periods, consider thermal layers for added warmth.

Weather Trivia: How Far Does Lake-Effect Snow Travel?

While Kenora isn’t directly in the lake-effect snow zone, did you know that snow generated by Lake of the Woods can extend up to 50 km inland? Thanks to the region’s geography, cold air moving across open waters picks up moisture and creates heavier snow bands – a phenomenon often linked to Alberta Clippers passing through the area!