Snowfall Weather Forecast: Ontario Braces for Messy Winter Storm

After a brief respite of milder temperatures, Southern Ontario is bracing for a significant winter storm on Wednesday. A broad Montana low, having already impacted the Prairies, is tracking eastward and bringing with it a complex mix of precipitation. While the weekend offered a welcome break from the extended cold snap, that warmer air has unfortunately paved the way for this messy system.

What to Expect: A Tri-State of Winter Weather

This isn’t a simple snow event. The forecast calls for a trifecta of winter woes: substantial snowfall, treacherous freezing rain, and periods of rain. The exact distribution of these conditions hinges on the precise placement of a warm front slicing through Southwestern Ontario.

• Snowfall: 10-20 cm of snow is anticipated for some areas, particularly north of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), stretching from Barrie to Kingston. Temperatures aloft will remain below freezing in these regions, favouring heavier snowfall.
• Freezing Rain: Areas south of the snow belt are likely to experience freezing rain, creating hazardous icy conditions. Inland areas and higher terrain are particularly vulnerable to prolonged periods of freezing rain as cooler air becomes trapped near the surface.
• Rain: Rainfall is expected south of the warm front, primarily in extreme southwestern Ontario.

Travel Impacts: Prepare for Difficult Conditions

Travel across Southern Ontario will be significantly impacted. Roads will be slippery and visibility reduced. Commutes on Wednesday morning and evening are expected to be particularly challenging. The The Weather Network advises exercising extreme caution and considering postponing non-essential travel.

The Uncertainty of the Warm Front

The key to understanding the precise impacts of this storm lies in the location of the warm front. Small shifts in its position can dramatically alter the precipitation type and intensity. Currently, there’s uncertainty whether the heaviest snow will fall across the GTA or further north in cottage country. A northward shift would mean more snow for areas like Barrie and Kingston, while a southward shift could bring freezing rain and rain to the GTA and southwestern Ontario.

Timing and Regional Breakdown

• Southwestern Ontario: Precipitation will begin to spread across the region in the pre-dawn hours on Wednesday.
• GTA: The morning commute will be tricky with a mix of heavy rain and wintry precipitation.
• Eastern Ontario: Slow and difficult commutes are expected Wednesday afternoon and evening.
• Southwest Ontario: Precipitation will begin to ease by Wednesday evening.

Stay tuned to your local weather forecasts for the latest updates and be prepared for changing conditions. Remember to check road conditions before you travel and allow extra time to reach your destination.

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