Environment Canada has issued a winter weather as well as a travel advisory in effect for today in southern Durham Region.
It projects a wintry mix of precipitation on Monday.
“A Texas low will bring a messy mix of precipitation to the area on Monday. Precipitation is expected to begin Monday morning as a mix of ice pellets and freezing rain. Near midday as temperatures climb above the freezing mark, precipitation will change over to rain for some areas,” said Environment Canada.
“However, a risk of freezing rain remains in the early afternoon for areas away from the lakeshore that don’t climb above the freezing mark. By late afternoon, precipitation will change over to wet snow (with minimal accumulations) before ending in the evening,” it said.
“Both the morning and afternoon commutes are likely to be impacted. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and give themselves extra time to reach their destination,” it said adding “Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Slow down driving in slippery conditions. Watch for taillights ahead and maintain a safe following distance. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.”
Cloca alert over hazardous creek conditions
The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (Cloca) has advised that the Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC) of the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, is tracking the low-pressure system set to move into the Cloca watershed Saturday and into Sunday. The system is expected to bring above zero temperatures, likely reaching double digits, along with some rainfall and winds.
The forecasted rainfall combined with frozen ground conditions, warm temperatures, and associated snowmelt could result in increased runoff causing higher than normal water levels and flows in streams. In addition, melting ice and snow may contribute to ice jams and blockages, especially at bridges and culverts, which may lead to localized flooding. Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however fast flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas and roadways may be expected in flood-prone areas, it said.
Cloca is asking all residents to stay away from all watercourses, shorelines, and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams. Increased wave activity, elevated water levels, fast-flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks and Lake Ontario shorelines continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please remind children of these dangers.
This Flood Outlook Statement will be in effect through Monday, March 7 or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority said it will continue to monitor the conditions of the streams and will provide updates as required.