Winter warnings stretched across Canada as snow squalls, deep cold and strong winds hit many areas. CTV
Winter weather swept across Canada on Thursday as Environment Canada issued a wide range of alerts for snow squalls, bitter cold and freezing rain. Many parts of Ontario faced heavy snow and fast-changing conditions through the afternoon. Areas southeast of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay stayed under snow squall warnings. Forecasters said some places could see totals near 50 centimetres.
By early afternoon, officials expected another 10 centimetres in regions already covered in deep snow. Conditions were set to improve later in the day, but strong winds and blowing snow kept travel difficult.
Thunder Bay and nearby communities received a snow squall watch. Forecasts called for up to 15 centimetres of snow Thursday evening. Environment Canada said an Alberta clipper would move through the region with strong winds and fresh snowfall. The agency warned that squalls could form ahead of the system and last into Friday morning. Drivers were told to expect sudden drops in visibility.
A special weather statement also covered a stretch of Ontario west of Thunder Bay to the Manitoba border. Earlier warnings for Manitoulin Island and the northern Bruce Peninsula ended by midday as conditions eased.
Quebec Faces Wind and Flurries
Quebec saw mixed weather through the day. Southern areas along the St. Lawrence River had earlier warnings about low visibility due to flurries, but those alerts were lifted by Thursday afternoon. Farther east, parts of the Gaspe Peninsula faced strong winds. Northwesterly gusts could reach 90 kilometres an hour overnight and into Friday morning.
Deep Cold Settles Over New Brunswick
The Maritimes dealt with sharp cold. Central New Brunswick remained under an extreme cold warning. Wind chill values were expected to drop below –30 overnight. Officials urged residents to limit time outdoors and to dress in warm layers.
Western Cape Breton and the southwest coast of Newfoundland stayed under a snow squall watch. Conditions were expected to worsen through Thursday night. Farther north, parts of northern Newfoundland and western Labrador received snowfall warnings. Some areas could see up to 20 centimetres, with even higher totals in spots where the snow bands linger.
Snow and Ice Hit Western Canada
Winter weather also hit the West. Northwest of Edmonton, a snowfall warning remained in place. Forecasters predicted up to 20 centimetres of snow. In British Columbia, freezing rain targeted the 100 Mile House region. The ice risk made road travel slippery and raised concerns for power lines.
Weather Patterns Remain Active
The week’s pattern brought a mix of snow, wind, cold and ice to nearly every region of the country. Environment Canada said conditions would shift again as systems continue to move east. Officials urged people to monitor local forecasts and prepare for changing weather.
