Mild Today, but a Slippery, Wintry Mess Expected by Thursday
Sudbury faces rain today, followed by freezing rain and snow on Thursday. Slippery roads and possible power outages expected—stay weather-aware
Sudbury is in for a wet and icy 48 hours as a low-pressure system moves into the region. A Special Weather Statement remains in effect, warning of 15 to 25 mm of rain today and the possibility of freezing rain overnight into Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon, the precipitation is expected to transition into snow, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Current Conditions (7:00 AM EDT, March 19, 2025)
The morning begins under mostly cloudy skies with a temperature of -0.7°C at Greater Sudbury Airport. With 93% humidity, the air is damp, and a northeast wind at 29 km/h is making it feel like -7°C. The barometric pressure is at 101.1 kPa and falling, signaling the approaching system. Despite the changing conditions, visibility remains 24 km for now.
Today’s Forecast: Rain Moving in by Afternoon
The morning will see a 40% chance of flurries or drizzle, with rain showers developing by early afternoon. There is also a risk of freezing drizzle early in the day, so roads may already be slick before the heavier rain arrives. The northeast wind at 20 km/h will keep things feeling chilly, but temperatures will rise to a high of 5°C. The UV index will be moderate at 3.
Tonight: Steady Rain with Possible Flooding
The rain continues into the night, with 10 to 15 mm expected. Temperatures will hold around 0°C, keeping conditions wet rather than icy for now. However, if temperatures drop slightly, freezing rain could begin to develop. The northeast wind at 20 km/h will add a damp chill to the air.
Thursday, March 20: Freezing Rain and Snow Bring Treacherous Conditions
By Thursday morning, rain is expected to transition to freezing rain, with 1 to 3 mm of ice build-up possible. Surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and power lines could become dangerously slick. By the afternoon, the system will switch gears again, bringing up to 5 cm of snow as temperatures drop to -4°C. The wind will shift north at 30 km/h, making it feel like -10°C in the afternoon. The UV index will be low at 1—but ice-covered roads will be far more concerning than sunburns.
Thursday Night: Cloudy periods with a 60% chance of flurries and a low of -11°C.
Looking Ahead: A Rollercoaster of Temperatures
- Friday, March 21: Increasing cloudiness with a high of +3°C.
- Friday Night: Flurries or rain showers, low -13°C.
- Saturday, March 22: A mix of sun and cloud with a 60% chance of flurries, high -3°C.
- Saturday Night: Clear skies, low -15°C.
Travel & Safety Advisory
Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible due to heavy rainfall today. By Thursday morning, freezing rain could make roads and sidewalks dangerously slick. If you must travel, allow extra time and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Power outages are also possible due to ice accumulation on trees and power lines.
What to Wear
Today’s rain calls for a waterproof jacket and sturdy boots. By Thursday, layer up with winter gear to prepare for freezing rain and snow. Traction-friendly footwear is a must to avoid slipping on icy sidewalks.
Weather Trivia
Sudbury’s weather has seen its fair share of extremes on March 19. The warmest temperature recorded was 18.0°C in 2012, while the coldest was -30.6°C in 1965. While today’s weather isn’t setting records, the mix of rain, ice, and snow will certainly keep things interesting!
Stay safe and keep an eye on the changing conditions, Sudbury—Mother Nature is throwing a little bit of everything at us this week!
