Spring Storms Ahead: Heavy Rain & Possible Thunder in the Nickel City

Sudbury’s weather for March 15-17 brings heavy rain, strong winds, and possible thunderstorms, followed by a chilly St. Patrick’s Day with flurries

Greater Sudbury is in for a wet and windy weekend, with a Special Weather Statement in effect warning of significant rainfall and possible flooding. If you were hoping for a calm start to spring, Mother Nature has other plans—so keep those umbrellas and waterproof boots handy!

Saturday, March 15: Cloudy, Showery & Breezy

The morning starts at 6°C under partly cloudy skies, with humidity at 59% and barometric pressure at 100.2 kPa (falling). Expect clouds to take over quickly, with showers developing and a risk of thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts of 5 to 10 mm are possible, and winds will be south at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. Despite the wet weather, temperatures will reach a mild high of 10°C.

Tonight, expect cloudy skies with a 40% chance of showers, but the real rain begins overnight. Fog patches could form in the evening, reducing visibility. Winds pick up to 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, and temperatures remain mild with a low of 8°C.

Sunday, March 16: Soaking Rain & Falling Temps

A stormy Sunday is on the way, with heavy rain expected throughout the day. Rainfall amounts of 10 to 15 mm are likely, but localized thunderstorms could push totals over 40 mm. Winds remain strong from the south at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h.

The temperature will start at 8°C but drop steadily to 0°C in the afternoon, meaning wet roads could turn icy later in the day. By nighttime, the rain may transition into flurries, with a 60% chance of snow and a low of -9°C.

Monday, March 17: A Cooler, Quieter St. Patrick’s Day

After Sunday’s storm, Monday will feel much calmer. Expect a mix of sun and clouds with a high of 2°C—chilly but pleasant compared to the rain-soaked weekend. The evening will bring cloudy periods and a 40% chance of flurries, with temperatures dipping to -4°C.

What to Wear?

• Saturday: A rain jacket and waterproof footwear—showers will be off and on.
• Sunday: Full rain gear, including a waterproof coat and sturdy boots—it’ll be a soaking wet day! Be prepared for strong winds as well.
• Monday: A warm jacket and layers—it’ll be colder but much drier.

Sudbury Weather Trivia

Did you know? The highest rainfall ever recorded in Sudbury for a single day in March was 48.0 mm on March 26, 1942. This weekend’s storm could come close!