A winter storm warning has been issued across Chatham-Kent, as a “highly impactful winter storm” is expected this weekend.
Environment Canada officials said at 4:22 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, total snowfall accumulations of 20 to 30 cm is possible, with peak snowfall rates of 3 to 6 cm per hour.
Forecasters added significantly reduced visibility in heavy snow and blowing snow is expected, along with slippery surfaces and light ice build-up from freezing rain or freezing drizzle.
The snow is set to begin Saturday morning and ending Sunday evening, with the heaviest snow expected on Sunday.
“A potent low pressure system will bring another impactful winter storm to the area,” Environment Canada officials say.
“Periods of snow, at times mixed with freezing drizzle, will begin this morning bringing general snowfall amounts up to 10 cm by late this evening. Snow may become lighter tonight with a risk of freezing drizzle.”
Forecasters added: “Conditions will rapidly deteriorate Sunday morning as a more significant area of snow and blowing snow arrives. An additional 10 to 20 cm is likely. Freezing rain or ice pellets may mix in with snow at times on Sunday, especially for areas near Lake Erie, which will impact total snowfall accumulations. Travel will be hazardous and is not recommended, particularly on Sunday.”
Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations, Environment Canada officials say.
“Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow,” forecasters say.
“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. 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 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 post reports on X using #ONStorm.
