In an winter storm alert issued today at 10:15 am EST, Environment Canada warned that travel will become hazardous.
It said Durham could see:
- Wind gusts up to 90kmh creating widespread blowing snow which will reduce visibility to near zero at times,
- Snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm by Saturday morning,
- Wind chill values into the minus twenties, and
- Flash freeze producing icy and slippery surfaces.
The agency said strong winds and widespread blowing snow is projected to develop Friday morning and continuing into Saturday.
Snow also will develop Friday morning, tapering off to flurries by Saturday morning.
Environment Canada said very cold wind chill values will develop on Friday and persist into the weekend. Flash freeze possible Friday morning.
It said precipitation is expected to begin as rain or snow Thursday evening before transitioning to rain for many areas last night. Temperatures were expected to plummet on Friday morning leading to a potential flash freeze. Rapidly falling temperatures will be accompanied by damaging winds, snow at times heavy, and widespread blowing snow. Total snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm is expected before the snow tapers off to flurries Saturday morning.
Environment Canada advised people to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. “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.
“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,” it added.
Click for information on emergency plans and kits.