STORM CENTRE: December 4-7, 2024

Austin Gagnier
Dec 5, 2024
2 min read

LAST UPDATE: 10:55 PM, December 5 2024

NEXT UPDATE: 8:00 AM, December 6 2024

Discussion

Another round of winter weather has set its sights on the region, beginning Wednesday morning. This system will have two parts, with system snowfall on Wednesday, and arctic air will flood in behind the system, causing more snow squalls to develop, possibly continuing into the weekend.

Snowfall will begin across much of the region Wednesday morning, possibly affecting travel conditions for the morning commute. Snow will continue throughout the day, with areas near the lakes seeing heavier snowfall due to lake enhancement. The heaviest snowfall is expected in Central, Midwestern, and portions of Eastern Ontario.

Strong wind gusts are expected Wednesday and through Thursday, with much of the region seeing wind gusts of 70 to 80 km/h. Central and Eastern Ontario are expected to see wind gusts of 60 to 70 km/h. These strong winds are expected to cause blowing and drifting snow, leading to roadways becoming snow covered quickly, especially for areas that have already received significant snowfall. Poor visibility will also be a factor as the wind will cause blowing snow, combined with falling snow.

By Wednesday evening, snow squalls will become the story off Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. Areas near Owen Sound and Southampton, as well as areas near Grand Bend and London are expected to see 15 to 25 centimetres of snow, with locally greater amounts possible. These snow squalls are expected to continue through Friday. Road closures will be possible, and poor travel is expected along portions of Highway 4, Highway 7, Highway 8, Highway 21, Highway 23 and Highway 26. There may be additional impacts on Highway 3, Highway 400 and Highway 401. Near blizzard conditions will be possible in areas that receive snow squalls.

Snow squalls are expected to begin weakening Friday into Saturday.