Region roundup: today's weather threats and travel advisories

Heavy snow and strong winds are expected in parts of northern Ontario while southern communities face a mix of rain, freezing drizzle and light snow. Officials have flagged hazardous conditions that could slow road clearing and disrupt transit; motorists and residents should plan for delays and slick surfaces.

Sault Ste. Marie: significant weather event declared, prepare for heavy snowfall

Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event as hazardous winter conditions are forecast for Wednesday morning (ET) and into late overnight. Snowfall totals near 20 centimetres are possible, with blowing snow reducing visibility and wind gusts up to 60 km/h expected. Those travelling during the event should be prepared for slower conditions on city-maintained roads and longer-than-usual clearing times.

The declaration serves as an advisory to exercise caution while driving; it does not automatically mean reduced municipal services or road closures. Residents are reminded that the winter parking by-law remains in effect — on-street parking is prohibited between midnight and 6 a. m. ET — to aid snow removal and plowing operations. Motorists should avoid parking on roadways or blocking sidewalks while snow operations are underway.

Heavy equipment will be active on major routes and neighbourhood streets. Drivers are urged to slow down, give plows and sanding crews extra space, and allow additional travel time. Transit riders should expect possible delays and should check local service notices before heading out.

Orillia area: clouds, freezing drizzle risk and a changeover to snow

Areas around Orillia are forecast to be mostly cloudy with east winds near 20 km/h becoming lighter into the afternoon. Temperatures will be mild for winter, with daytime highs around +2°C and low readings near -1°C overnight. Early-morning wind chill values dipped near -9°C.

There is about a 30 percent chance of rain showers overnight with a risk of freezing drizzle, which can produce very slick patches on untreated surfaces. A mix of sun and cloud is expected into the morning, but precipitation will increase through the day — rain beginning in the morning is expected to change to snow in the afternoon. Freezing rain is possible during the morning and into early afternoon, and total snowfall amounts are forecast near 5 centimetres in some locations. UV index values will remain low.

After the main system passes, conditions look to remain mostly cloudy with continuing chances of flurries into the coming days. Nighttime lows could fall into the single digits below zero, with occasional daytime readings hovering around or just above freezing.

Practical steps for residents and drivers

Take these precautions to stay safe during the mixed winter conditions:

• Allow extra travel time and reduce speed on wet, icy or snowy roads.
• Keep a safe distance from snowplows and road maintenance vehicles; they may stop or turn unexpectedly.
• Move vehicles off streets between midnight and 6 a. m. ET where winter parking rules are in effect to facilitate plowing.
• Be prepared for sudden visibility reductions in blowing snow and possible black ice where freezing drizzle occurs.
• Transit users should watch for schedule changes and allow for delays.

Weather conditions may evolve through the day; monitor forecasts and local advisories before travelling, especially during the overnight and morning periods when freezing precipitation and heavy snow are most likely.