Snowfall warning issued as 'major' winter storm nears Sault

A major winter storm heading through central Ontario that initially looked like it was going to miss Sault Ste. Marie now has the city in its sights, according to a new snowfall alert from Environment Canada.

The weather agency says up to 20 cm of snow is possible starting this afternoon and continuing into Wednesday evening, with travel conditions expected to be difficult due to accumulating snow.

Find more details in the full Environment Canada weather alert:

5:21 AM EST Tuesday 9 January 2024

    Sault Ste. Marie - St. Joseph Island
    Elliot Lake - Ranger Lake
    Blind River - Thessalon

Significant snowfall today into Wednesday.

Hazards:

15 to 20 cm of snow. Reduced visibility in areas of heavy snow and local blowing snow. Hazardous travel conditions.

Timing:

This afternoon into Wednesday morning.

Discussion:

Heavy snowfall associated with a major winter storm is expected to begin affecting northeastern Ontario today, with the worst conditions expected tonight into Wednesday morning. Total snowfall amounts of 15 to 20 cm are possible. Locally reduced visibility in blowing snow is also possible.

Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow.

Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance.

Snowfall warnings are issued when significant snowfall is expected.

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.