Blizzard warning continued for:
Midland – Coldwater – Orr Lake,
Orillia – Lagoon City – Washago,
Town of Parry Sound – Rosseau – Killbear Park,
Port Carling – Port Severn,
Bracebridge – Gravenhurst,
Blizzard warning replaces winter storm warning for:
Huntsville – Baysville,
Current details:
Blizzard conditions continuing today.
Travel will be extremely difficult to impossible at times and is not advised.
Hazards:
Blizzard conditions with wind gusts up to 90 km/h. Utility outages are possible.
Snowfall amounts of 25 to 50 cm by tonight.
Wind chill values near minus 20.
Road closures are possible.
Timing:
Strong winds and blizzard conditions continuing today and possibly tonight.
Very cold wind chill values will persist through this weekend.
Discussion:
Blizzard conditions from the combination of very strong winds and lake effect snow off Georgian Bay will continue especially in the vicinity of Parry Sound this morning to further south later this morning. Given the localized nature of lake effect snow, accumulations will vary depending on location. Remember, it does not take much accumulation in combination with very strong winds for blizzard conditions to develop.
Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow.
If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop. Protect yourself from wind, cold and disorientation by staying sheltered, indoors or with your vehicle. If you must travel, keep others informed of your schedule and destination and carry an emergency kit and mobile phone. Anyone who is not dressed warmly is at risk of frostbite and hypothermia in cold weather. Ensure that shelter is provided for pets and outdoor animals. Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight. For information on emergency plans and kits go to http://www.getprepared.gc.ca.
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.
