Snowfall Warning in Effect: 15 to 25 cm Expected Today
Just when you were starting to believe in spring again, winter shows up like it forgot something. Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for Upsala, Raith, and surrounding stretches of Highway 17, with 15 to 25 cm of snow expected by tonight. The snow is moving in fast and heavy, with travel conditions deteriorating rapidly through the day.
Today’s Forecast: Slushy Morning, Snowy Afternoon, and Treacherous Travel
Rain this morning is set to switch to snow early, and it’s not easing in gently. Expect peak snowfall rates of 2 to 3 cm per hour, strong enough to build up quickly on roads, sidewalks, and any car that dares park outside. And just to spice things up, there’s a risk of freezing rain during the transition, especially mid-morning.
By the afternoon, the snow intensifies, and north-northeast winds at 30 km/h, gusting up to 45 km/h, will stir up some local blowing snow, especially in open stretches along Highway 17. Visibility will drop fast, so expect intermittent whiteouts. If you’re on the road, slow down and give the plows some love.
As of early morning, the temperature is right around 0°C, with humidity at 96%, creating ideal conditions for heavy, wet snow. Barometric pressure is at 100.4 kPa and falling, a sure sign that the system is strengthening.
Tonight: Snow Lightens But Leaves a Deep Cover
Snow will begin to taper off this evening, but by then it’ll have left a thick snowy signature. Total accumulations may reach or even exceed 25 cm, especially closer to Raith. Overnight temperatures will dip to –5°C, locking in those icy patches and keeping that snow shovel busy Tuesday morning.
April 14: Winter’s Encore Performance
Historically, this date has brought weather on both ends of the spectrum. While highs have pushed into the teens in the past, today’s snowy spectacle is nothing new. Just a not-so-gentle reminder that in Northwestern Ontario, spring is more of a suggestion than a season.
Wardrobe Wisdom
Bundle up like it’s December. Snow pants, waterproof boots, a thermal coat, and good gloves are a must—especially if you’re clearing snow or venturing along Highway 17. Bonus points if you pack a thermos and a sense of humour.
Did You Know?
Highway 17, stretching through Raith and Upsala, is a crucial trans-Canada artery—and also a hotspot for sudden weather changes. Because of its exposure and elevation shifts, it often becomes a snow trap during these April systems, catching motorists off guard with conditions that change in minutes.
