Weekend Washout: Significant Rainfall and Thunderstorm Risk
Sudbury faces significant rainfall this weekend, with 20-40 mm expected and a risk of thunderstorms. Localized flooding is possible before a sharp freeze Sunday night
Residents of Greater Sudbury and surrounding areas should prepare for a wet and stormy weekend, as a Special Weather Statement warns of 20 to 40 mm of rain, with locally higher amounts possible. With frozen ground limiting absorption, water pooling and localized flooding in low-lying areas may become a concern.
Current Conditions: A Misty, Cold Start
At 6:00 AM EDT, Sudbury sits at -5.4°C under misty conditions, with humidity at 97% making it feel damp and raw. Winds are light from the SSE at 7 km/h, bringing a wind chill of -9°C. Visibility is reduced to 1.2 km, so drivers should be cautious in foggy patches. The barometric pressure is rising at 101.7 kPa, but that will change as the storm system approaches.
Today: A Taste of Spring with Sunshine and a Mild Afternoon
Despite the frigid morning, mainly sunny skies and a shift to southerly winds at 20 km/h will help temperatures climb to 10°C. This brief glimpse of spring will come with a moderate UV index of 5, so a little sunscreen wouldn’t hurt if you’re outside.
Tonight, partly cloudy skies will dominate, but a 30% chance of showers will develop late this evening and overnight, along with a risk of thunderstorms. The low will remain well above freezing at 6°C.
Saturday: Increasing Clouds and a Stormy Turn
Clouds will build early, and showers will start in the morning, with a risk of thunderstorms by late morning and into the afternoon. Winds will pick up from the south at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, making for a breezy day. The high will reach 10°C, keeping things mild.
Saturday night will bring cloudy skies with a 60% chance of showers, with a low of 2°C.
Sunday: Heavy Rain and Flooding Risks
Sunday is shaping up to be the wettest day of the weekend, with periods of rain—at times heavy—continuing throughout the day. The high will be 6°C, keeping things soggy but above freezing.
However, Sunday night will see flurries return as temperatures plummet to -10°C, meaning some roads and sidewalks could turn icy by Monday morning.
Monday and Beyond: A Return to Cold and Flurries
Monday will bring a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of flurries, with a high of 1°C. The night will stay cloudy with a low of -7°C.
Hazards: Heavy Rain, Flooding, and a Sudden Freeze
- 20 to 40 mm of rain (potentially more in thunderstorms) could lead to water pooling and localized flooding in low-lying areas.
- Thunderstorms on Saturday and Sunday could bring gusty winds and heavier downpours.
- A sharp drop in temperature Sunday night could lead to icy conditions on roads and sidewalks by Monday morning.
Wardrobe Advice: From Light Jackets to Waterproof Gear
- Today & Saturday: A light jacket or sweater will be comfortable, but bring an umbrella for the showers.
- Sunday: A raincoat and waterproof boots will be necessary as heavy rain sets in.
- Sunday Night & Monday: Time to bundle back up in winter coats, gloves, and boots, as the cold returns with flurries.
Fun Weather Fact: Why Does Rain Flood More in the Spring?
In early spring, the ground is often still frozen or saturated, meaning rainwater has nowhere to go, increasing the risk of flooding. That’s why even moderate rainfalls can lead to significant water buildup in ditches, yards, and low-lying roads!
Stay dry, stay safe, and prepare for a rainy and stormy weekend in Sudbury!
