Urgent Winter Storm Warning: Up to 25 cm Snow Forecasted in Ontario

URGENT UPDATE: A severe winter storm warning has been issued for much of northern Ontario, with Thunder Bay and surrounding areas bracing for 10 to 25 centimetres of snow. The alert, upgraded from a winter storm watch, was announced by Environment and Climate Change Canada on December 5, 2023.

The storm is expected to begin this evening and continue through Wednesday night, creating hazardous conditions across the region. Residents should prepare for significant disruptions as strong northerly winds, gusting up to 70 kilometres per hour, will accompany the heavy snowfall. This will lead to blowing snow and near-zero visibility at times.

Communities directly impacted by the winter storm warning include:
– Thunder Bay
– Agawa — Lake Superior Park
– Beardmore — Jellicoe — Macdiarmid
– Chapleau — Missinaibi Lake
– Geraldton — Longlac — Caramat
– Timmins — Cochrane — Iroquois Falls
– Wawa — Pukaskwa Park

Additionally, snowfall warnings are in effect for areas expecting 10 to 15 centimetres of snow, including:
– Atikokan — Shebandowan — Quetico Park
– Upsala — Raith
– Gull Bay — Black Sturgeon Lake

Authorities are advising residents to consider postponing non-essential travel and outdoor activities until the situation improves. Conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, affecting roads and walkways across the region.

Residents are urged to stay updated on weather developments and report severe weather conditions to [email protected] or on social media using #ONStorm.

As the storm approaches, it is crucial to prepare for potential disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities. Stay safe and informed as this winter storm unfolds.