A winter storm watch is in effect across Chatham-Kent, as an ice storm is possible late Wednesday into Thursday.
“A Colorado low will bring the potential for a prolonged freezing rain event across portions of southwestern Ontario,” Environment Canada officials say.
“Precipitation may begin as snow or ice pellets before changing to freezing rain late Wednesday. There remains some uncertainty for the exact location and timing of the freezing rain axis, as well as the amount of ice accretion that may occur.
Forecasters say hazards, include: Prolonged period of freezing rain leading to significant ice build up in some areas and extended and widespread utility outages are possible.
“Freezing rain warnings are expected to be issued as the event draws nearer,” forecasters say.
“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas. 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.”
For information on emergency plans and kits go to http://www.getprepared.gc.ca.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.
