A Quiet Start, But a Major Winter Storm is on the Way
Wawa & Pukaskwa brace for a winter storm with up to 40 cm of snow and strong winds. Travel will be hazardous Wednesday into Thursday. Get the latest forecast!
Wawa and Pukaskwa National Park are currently sitting at -2°C as of 6:00 AM at Wawa Airport. While official conditions haven’t been observed, humidity is high at 94%, and a light northeast breeze at 7 km/h is making it feel like -5°C. The barometric pressure is at 101.1 kPa, indicating stable conditions for now—but that won’t last long.
A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the region, with heavy snowfall and strong winds expected to create hazardous conditions from Wednesday into Thursday. Snowfall totals of 20 to 40 cm are possible, with peak snowfall rates of 3 to 5 cm per hour. Blowing snow, gusty winds up to 50 km/h, and reduced visibility will make travel dangerous. If you have plans to be on the road midweek, consider postponing or preparing for extreme winter driving conditions.
Today & Tonight: Cloudy and Cold
Before the storm arrives, today will remain mostly cloudy, with temperatures hovering around -2°C. Winds will stay light, up to 15 km/h, keeping the wind chill at -5°C. Tonight will stay cloudy as well, with temperatures dipping lower ahead of the incoming system.
Wednesday & Thursday: Snowstorm Moves In
The winter storm will begin early Wednesday and intensify throughout the day. Snow will fall heavily, reducing visibility, and accumulating quickly. By Wednesday night, snowfall rates of up to 5 cm per hour could occur, accompanied by gusty north winds at 50 km/h, creating blowing and drifting snow.
The storm will persist into Thursday, with snowfall gradually tapering off by the afternoon. However, travel will likely be treacherous due to deep snow accumulation and poor visibility.
Friday: A Return to Sunshine
After two days of intense winter weather, Friday will bring relief with sunshine and more seasonal temperatures. However, expect snow-covered roads and lingering travel disruptions from the storm.
Wardrobe Check: Full Winter Gear Required
With extreme winter conditions expected, heavy-duty winter gear is a must. Insulated boots, a thick winter coat, gloves, and a hat will be necessary, especially with wind chills and blowing snow. If you’re venturing out Wednesday or Thursday, dress for blizzard-like conditions.
Wawa’s Weather Trivia: March Storms Can Pack a Punch
Wawa has seen its fair share of late-winter storms. The biggest March snowfall event on record dropped over 60 cm in a single storm! While this storm isn’t expected to reach those levels, 40 cm is still more than enough to bring the region to a standstill.