Heavy Snow Expected Overnight – Travel Disruptions Likely

Thunder Bay remains under a Snowfall Warning, with up to 25 cm of snow expected by Friday morning. Travel will be difficult. Stay safe and plan ahead!

A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for Thunder Bay and surrounding areas as a strong Alberta Clipper system moves through the region, bringing significant snowfall overnight into Friday morning.

What to Expect:

Prepare for a total snow accumulation of 15 cm, with some areas, particularly those at higher elevations, seeing up to 25 cm of fresh snow. Snowfall rates could reach 2 to 4 cm per hour, drastically reducing visibility and making travel hazardous.

Timing:

The snow is already falling this evening and will persist into Friday morning, with the heaviest snowfall expected overnight.

Impacts on Travel:

Road conditions will rapidly deteriorate, with highways, city streets, and sidewalks becoming snow-covered and slippery. If you must drive, allow extra time, reduce your speed, and use your headlights even during daylight hours. Visibility could be significantly reduced in heavy snowfall, making defensive driving essential.

Current Conditions in Thunder Bay:

• Temperature: A chilly -8°C, feeling colder with the wind.
• Winds: Blowing from the northwest at 25 km/h, gusting higher at times.
• Humidity: 80%, meaning a damp, bone-chilling cold.
• Barometric Pressure: Falling, signaling the storm’s continued presence.

Historic Weather for February 27:

Thunder Bay has seen its fair share of winter extremes on this date. The record high for February 27 was 6.8°C, while the record low plummeted to -35.0°C—a reminder that while today’s storm is inconvenient, it could be much colder!

What to Wear:

It’s a full-on winter gear kind of night—insulated boots, thick gloves, and a warm toque are non-negotiable. If you’re heading out to shovel, dress in layers and take breaks to avoid overexertion.

Weather Trivia:

Did you know? Thunder Bay’s snowfall record for a single February day was 35 cm, set in 1965! While tonight’s storm isn’t quite that intense, it’s still one of the more significant snowfalls of the season.

Bottom Line:
Buckle up for a snowy night and a slow Friday morning commute. If you can, stay off the roads until conditions improve. Keep the snow shovels handy, and maybe warm up some hot cocoa—winter’s not done with us yet!