Environment Canada has upgraded its previously issued winter storm watch to a warning, now saying 25 to 40 centimetres are expected to hit the Northumberland and Quinte regions this weekend.
Previously, officials were predicting potentially 20 to 30 cm would accumulate over the Family Day long-weekend – although, officials also noted earlier that there remained some uncertainty as to which areas will be hit hardest and encouraged people to continue to monitor future forecasts.
Environment Canada upgraded alerts to winter storm warnings the morning of Saturday, Feb. 15 for both western and eastern Northumberland County, as well as the Quinte West and Belleville region.
The timing of the storm has also changed – snow is now anticipated to start Saturday afternoon or evening and end Sunday evening, according to officials, who described the weather event as a “highly impactful winter storm” attributed to a “potent low-pressure system.”
However, the heaviest snow is still expected Sunday.
Along with total snowfall accumulations of potentially 25 to 40 cm (and higher amounts possible over the Algonquin Highlands) peak snowfall rates of three- to six cm per hour are anticipated.
This will result in significantly reduced visibility in heavy and blowing snow, warned officials.
Periods of snow start Saturday afternoon, bringing general snowfall amounts up five- to 10 cm by late this evening, explained Environment Canada, noting that snow may become lighter tonight.
However, come Sunday morning, conditions will “rapidly deteriorate” as more significant snow and blowing snow blasts through. This is where the additional 20 to 30 cm is likely.
“Travel will be hazardous and is not recommended, particularly on Sunday,” reiterated officials, who continue to urge people to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
The rapidly accumulating snow, along with suddenly reduced near-zero visibility in times of heavy and blowing snow will make travel difficult.
Public Safety Canada is again encouraging people to have emergency plans and kits in place, with items such as drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kid and a flashlight. More information is available online.
Environment Canada also recommends people continue to monitor alerts and forecasts.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
