Intense Snow Squalls Set to Blanket Ontario with Up to 80 cm Snowfall

Intense Snow Squalls Set to Blanket Ontario with Up to 80 cm Snowfall

Intense Snow Squalls Set to Blanket Ontario with Up to 80 cm Snowfall

A significant winter event is taking shape in Ontario as Environment Canada issues snow squall warnings across the province’s snowbelt regions. Areas north of Toronto, including cottage country hotspots such as Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Haliburton, are bracing for intense lake-effect snow, with accumulations potentially exceeding 50 cm by Sunday. This “multi-day snow squall event” is driven by the stark temperature differences between unseasonably warm Great Lakes water and cold Arctic air, creating perfect conditions for heavy snowfall.

According to meteorologists, Friday will bring some of the most intense activity, with snowfall rates of up to 8 cm per hour and the possibility of thunder snow. These squalls will likely shift throughout the weekend, leading to highly variable snowfall totals across different regions. While some areas may be buried under upwards of 80 cm of snow, nearby regions may experience significantly less accumulation.

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Travel in the affected areas is expected to be hazardous, with near-zero visibility and rapidly accumulating snow on roadways. School closures and bus cancellations are anticipated in districts most impacted, including Muskoka and Bruce Peninsula. Residents are urged to prepare for disruptions and avoid non-essential travel during peak snowfall periods.

In Toronto, residents can expect light snow flurries over the next few days, though significant accumulation is unlikely. Temperatures in the city are forecast to hover around 5°C on Thursday, dropping slightly into the weekend.

This weather event underscores the challenges posed by Ontario’s lake-effect snow zones. Communities near the Great Lakes, particularly downwind of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, will bear the brunt of this early winter storm. While picturesque for some, these conditions highlight the importance of preparation, as winter arrives in full force. Residents are advised to stay informed and heed local advisories for their safety.

With snow expected to persist into early next week, Ontario’s snowbelt regions are set for a memorable—and snowy—start to the winter season.

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