25-50 cm: Ontario's late weekend snowstorm threatens 'crippling' travel for some
Following a brief stretch of spring-like weather, a powerful Colorado low is forecast to bring significant snowfall, with some regions potentially receiving more than 50 cm
Drivers in southern Ontario will face challenging conditions Friday as a late-season snowfall moves through the region. A more significant low pressure system will strengthen and track toward Ontario on Sunday, delivering a mix of snow, ice, rain, and strong winds early next week.
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The major system will bring heavy snow to northern parts of the province and near-blizzard conditions for areas along the Trans-Canada Highway in northeastern Ontario and western Quebec. Blowing and drifting snow, coupled with gusts between 50–70 km/h, will likely cripple travel through Monday. Be sure to check back for the latest forecast updates as this system develops, and keep an eye on the road conditions before heading out.
Major March snowstorm to watch for early next week
Snow will spread across southern and central Ontario Sunday as the storm’s warm front lifts northward.
A brief period of ice pellets and freezing rain is possible south of the precipitation boundary, with freezing rain expected in the Nickel Belt by Sunday night and into Monday.
Southern Ontario will see rain and mild temperatures Monday, with daytime highs reaching the low double digits.
Very heavy snow and icy precipitation are likely in central and northeastern Ontario.
Communities such as Chapleau and Timmins could see 50+ cm of snow by Monday night, with 30+ cm expected in areas like Kapuskasing and Sudbury.
Highways 11, 17, 101, and surrounding routes are expected to see hazardous travel conditions throughout much of Monday.
Temperatures will drop Monday night, with wind chills reaching the minus 20s in the north and minus teens in the south.
Milder conditions are expected to push west to east across the region later next week, but they may face resistance. This is likely to result in fluctuating temperatures as late March approaches.