Environment Canada says a snow squall originating from Lake Huron will move across the area early this afternoon. This squall is capable of producing quick accumulations of 2 to 5 cm in an hour along with sudden reductions to near zero visibility in heavy snow.
This band is expected to move out the region by early this evening.
Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably; changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common. Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations.
Snow squall warnings are issued when bands of snow form that produce intense accumulating snow or near zero visibilities.
Earlier, Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning for Southern Durham Region, with snow accumulations totalling 15 to 25 centimetres expected, said Durham Health.
Drivers are reminded to drive according to the road and weather conditions and to stay a safe distance back from other vehicles, including snowplows.
Durham residents are asked to ensure all vehicles are off the road to allow for snow clearing operations. Temporary parking passes and on-street parking permits are not valid during a snow event or for the duration of the cleanup. If you park on the street during a snow event, your vehicle may be ticketed or towed, said a municipal announcement.
It reminded residents to clear snow and ice from around hydrants to allow firefighters easy access to the area during an emergency. To prevent flooding, we encourage residents to also clear snow and ice from on-street catch basins in front of their homes, it added.
“Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas,” it said.
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