Blowing snow advisory issued north of Sault Ste. Marie

A blowing snow advisory has been issued for north of Sault Ste. Marie, including Searchmont, Batchawana Bay and Montreal River Harbour.

Environment Canada says, with strong wind gusts of up to 70 km/h, blowing snow could cause near zero visibility this afternoon.

“Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations,” the advisory said.

With heavy snowfall and strong winds in the forecast, Sault Ste. Marie remains under a winter weather travel advisory which is expected to continue until this evening.

In addition, the wind chill is expected to be near minus 23 today and this evening.

“Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” Environment Canada says. “Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.”

“If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.”

The City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event due to the storm.

Find the full blowing snow advisory from Environment Canada below:

Blowing snow advisory issued for:
   Wawa - White River - Pukaskwa, Ont.
   Agawa - Lake Superior Park, Ont. 
   Searchmont - Montreal River Harbour - Batchawana Bay, Ont. 

Current details:
Local blowing snow giving near zero visibility in snow and blowing snow this afternoon.

Hazards:
Near zero visibility due to snow and blowing snow.
Strong wind gusts up to 70 km/h.

Timing:
This afternoon.

Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero.

If travelling, be prepared for areas of near-zero visibility.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.

More details on the alert are available here.