Get Set for Up to 25 cm of Snow as an Alberta Clipper Sweeps In

Thunder Bay braces for a winter storm, with 15-25 cm of snow expected overnight into Friday. Strong winds and blowing snow will make travel difficult

Thunder Bay is under a Winter Storm Warning and Snowfall Warning as a powerful Alberta Clipper is set to hit the region late tonight into Friday morning. This fast-moving winter storm will bring total snowfall accumulations of 15 cm, with local amounts up to 25 cm possible. Peak snowfall rates could reach 2 to 4 cm per hour, leading to drastically reduced visibility and treacherous travel conditions.

Currently, light snow is falling in Thunder Bay, with a temperature of 0.3°C. Winds are coming from the west at 13 km/h, and humidity is at 86%. Visibility is still relatively good at 16 km, but that will change as the storm arrives. The barometric pressure is at 100.5 kPa.

What is an Alberta Clipper?

An Alberta Clipper is a fast-moving, low-pressure winter storm system that develops in the Canadian Prairies—often in Alberta—before racing southeastward across the country. These storms are known for quick bursts of heavy snow, strong winds, and rapid temperature drops. While they typically don’t hold as much moisture as other winter storms, their speed and intensity can create dangerous conditions, especially with blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Today’s Forecast: Light Snow Before the Main Event

Periods of light snow will continue through the afternoon before tapering off, leaving behind cloudy skies and a 30% chance of lingering flurries. Another 2 cm of snow is expected. Winds will shift to the northwest at 20 km/h, keeping the high at +1°C. However, by afternoon, the wind chill will make it feel like -8°C. The UV index remains low at 1.

Tonight: The Storm Arrives with Heavy Snow and Strong Winds

Skies will remain mainly cloudy this evening, with a 30% chance of flurries early on before the main snowfall event begins after midnight. Snow will become heavy overnight, with accumulations of 5 cm before morning, but much more to come. Winds will increase significantly, shifting southeast at 30 km/h and gusting to 50 km/h before dawn. The temperature will drop to -6°C, with wind chills making it feel like -12°C.

Friday: Heavy Snow, Blowing Snow, and Harsh Wind Chills

Friday will be a messy and difficult travel day as the storm reaches full strength. Snowfall amounts of 10 to 15 cm are expected, with local blowing snow reducing visibility even further. Winds will be east at 40 km/h, gusting to 60 km/h, before shifting north at 20 km/h in the afternoon. The high will be -4°C, but wind chills will make it feel like -15°C in the morning and -10°C in the afternoon.

Friday night will bring cloudy periods and a 60% chance of flurries, with temperatures dropping to a frigid -20°C.

The Weekend and Early Next Week: Cold but Gradual Warm-Up

• Saturday: Sunny with a high of -7°C, dropping to -20°C at night under clear skies.
• Sunday: A mix of sun and cloud with a high of -4°C. The night will see cloudy periods with a low of -10°C.
• Monday: A mix of sun and cloud, and for the first time in a while, a noticeable warm-up to +4°C! However, Monday night could bring flurries or rain showers, with a low of -4°C.

What to Wear: Full Winter Gear Needed for Snow and Wind

With heavy snowfall, strong winds, and frigid wind chills, dressing properly will be essential. A thick insulated winter coat, gloves, a hat, and a scarf will be necessary, especially as wind chills make it feel much colder. Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction will help navigate deep snow and icy surfaces. If traveling, pack an emergency winter kit, including blankets, extra clothing, a flashlight, and food, in case of delays.

Thunder Bay Weather Trivia: Snowiest City in Ontario?

Thunder Bay frequently ranks among Ontario’s snowiest cities, averaging 160 to 200 cm of snowfall per year. While today’s Alberta Clipper won’t break any records, it will certainly add to this winter’s totals in a hurry!

Stay safe, drive carefully, and prepare for significant snowfall and strong winds overnight into Friday morning.