Lake Effect Snow to Create Hazardous Conditions
Ontario is gearing up for an intense storm as lake effect snow squalls are expected to blanket parts of the region. A significant shift in temperatures over the Great Lakes is creating conditions for heavy snowfall, with accumulations possibly reaching up to 80 cm by early next week.
Anthony Farnell, Global News meteorologist, explained the unique weather phenomenon. “Areas downwind of all five Great Lakes will see some incredible snow totals this upcoming weekend,” he said.
Recent record-high water temperatures in the Great Lakes, due to a calm autumn, are meeting colder air. This sharp contrast between lake and air temperatures is producing ideal conditions for lake effect squalls, Farnell noted.
Snow Totals Could Exceed 80 cm
Intense squalls are forecast to develop early Friday and could persist through the weekend into next week. “The Lake Huron and Georgian Bay snow squalls will quickly intensify early Friday morning and continue right into early next week,” Farnell added.
In the most intense squalls, could accumulate at rates of up to eight centimetres per hour, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Farnell highlighted the challenges this could bring. “By Monday, totals could reach as high as 80 cm under the more persistent snow squalls.”
While much of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) will avoid the heaviest fall, areas to the north and west could see totals exceeding 10 cm by Monday. For Toronto itself, flurries are likely, but significant accumulation is not expected.
Snow Squall Warnings in Effect
Environment Canada has issued snow squall warnings for numerous regions across southern and midwestern Ontario. Areas under these warnings include Owen Sound, Blue Mountains, Bracebridge, Huntsville, Sault Ste. Marie, and locations near Lake Nipigon.
“Hazardous lake effect snow squalls to impact the region through the weekend,” the agency warned.
Localised accumulations may exceed 50 cm in some areas by Sunday afternoon. Peak snowfall rates could range between 5 and 10 cm per hour, causing very poor visibility and challenging travel conditions.
Variable Snowfall Across the Region
Snowfall amounts will vary significantly depending on location, as the squalls shift with changing wind directions. Communities near the lakes will experience wet, heavy fall initially due to milder water temperatures. As conditions evolve, heavier snowfalls will move across different areas.
Regions just north of Waterloo, such as North Perth, Huron East, Grand Valley, and Orangeville, are also under warnings. The warnings extend to Manitoulin Island, Elliot Lake, and Bayfield Inlet, all of which are likely to face significant fall.
La Niña Winter to Bring More Snow
Farnell noted that Canada is set to experience a La Niña winter this season, driven by warmer Pacific Ocean waters. This typically results in colder temperatures and higher precipitation across many parts of the country.
Much of British Columbia, Alberta, southwestern Saskatchewan, and central and southwestern Ontario are expected to see above-normal fall this winter.
The current cold spell is expected to last through 10 December, Farnell said. He added that the areas hit hardest this weekend could face additional falls in the coming weeks.
Precautions for Residents
Environment Canada has urged residents in affected areas to prepare for hazardous conditions. Public Safety Canada advises having an emergency plan and kit ready. These kits should include essentials like water, food, medicine, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
“If you must travel, keep others informed of your schedule and carry an emergency kit and mobile phone,” Environment Canada stated.
Drivers are advised to expect sudden changes in visibility and challenging road conditions. Squalls can cause rapid shifts from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres. Road closures are also possible in areas under the warnings.
Safety First
As the squalls move across Ontario, safety remains a priority. Residents in affected areas should monitor weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel. The variable and intense nature of squalls makes them particularly dangerous.
Conclusion
Ontario’s snowy weekend will be a significant weather event, with some areas likely to see record-breaking falls. With accumulations reaching up to 80 cm in certain locations, the next few days will bring challenges for travellers and residents alike.
Stay informed, prepared, and cautious as the squalls continue to develop. Regular updates from meteorologists and weather agencies will be crucial to navigating these hazardous conditions safely.
