Environment Canada issues winter storm and snowfall warnings across northern Ontario as heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions loom.
Northern Ontario Braces for Severe Winter Storm
Intensifying Alerts Across the Region
A widespread winter storm warning has been issued for much of northern Ontario as Environment and Climate Change Canada escalated its earlier watch on Tuesday. The federal agency confirmed that the storm is expected to blanket communities from Thunder Bay to Moosonee with significant snowfall and dangerous wind conditions.
Heavy Snowfall Expected to Begin Tuesday Evening
The storm system is forecast to begin late Tuesday and continue through Wednesday night, bringing 10 to 20 centimetres of snow to Thunder Bay. Several surrounding regions may see even heavier totals, with estimates between 15 and 25 centimetres. In addition to the snowfall, strong northerly winds—gusting up to 70 km/h—are expected to create blowing snow and severely reduced visibility.
Travel Likely to Be Impacted Across Multiple Communities
Meteorologists warn that the combination of heavy snow and high winds will make travel hazardous. The agency is urging residents to postpone non-essential trips and prepare for potential disruptions to transportation, utilities, and municipal services. Communities included in the winter storm warning range widely, covering:
- Thunder Bay
- Wawa – Pukaskwa Park
- Kapuskasing – Hearst – Smooth Rock Falls
- Geraldton – Longlac – Caramat
- Chapleau – Missinaibi Lake
- Moosonee
- White River – Dubreuilville
…and more across the northern corridor.
Snowfall Warnings for Additional Regions
Several areas just outside the storm-warning zone are under snowfall warnings, where 10 to 15 centimetres are anticipated. These include Atikokan – Shebandowan – Quetico Park, Gull Bay – Black Sturgeon Lake, and Upsala – Raith. Officials caution that roads and walkways in these regions will quickly deteriorate as accumulation intensifies.
Officials Urge Residents to Prepare
In its latest advisory, Environment Canada emphasized the risk of near-zero visibility, snow-covered roads, and rapidly changing conditions. Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items, prepare emergency kits, and monitor local updates as the system moves through the region.
Storm Expected to Clear by Wednesday Night
The winter storm is projected to taper off by late Wednesday, though cleanup may extend into Thursday depending on accumulation and drifting. Authorities continue to advise caution, reminding residents that conditions may remain treacherous even after snowfall ends.
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