Strong northerly winds, reaching up to 50 km/h, will cause blowing snow and reduce visibility, according to Environment Canada. Stock photo
Ontario will experience two very different weather patterns this week. While northern areas prepare for a major snowstorm, the south will enjoy mild spring temperatures. The sharp contrast will be hard to miss, as parts of the north are expected to get buried under 20-40 cm of snow, while the south basks in sunshine with temperatures reaching the mid-teens.
Northern Ontario: Heavy Snow and Hazardous Travel
A strong winter storm will hit northern Ontario starting Wednesday afternoon, bringing heavy snow and powerful winds. The storm, fueled by moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, will clash with a cold air mass over the region. This collision will create intense snowfall, with rates of 3-5 cm per hour by Wednesday night.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has already issued winter storm warnings, advising people to avoid travel due to dangerous road conditions. Highways, especially Highway 17, are likely to face significant delays and potential closures as visibility drops. Winds between 40-60 km/h will add to the chaos, whipping up snow and creating whiteout conditions.
The areas expected to be hit hardest include Wawa, Chapleau, Timmins, and Kapuskasing, where 20-40 cm of wet snow could pile up by Thursday. Sault Ste. Marie will sit on the edge of the snowstorm, starting with rain on Wednesday before it turns into snow on Thursday. This shift will make roads slick and dangerous as wet surfaces freeze into slushy, icy messes.
Southern Ontario: Spring Warmth in Full Swin
While the north battles snow and ice, southern and eastern Ontario will feel like spring. Warm air moving in from the south will push temperatures into the mid- to high-teens. Cities from Ottawa to Windsor could see daytime highs reaching as much as 20°C by midweek.
The warm stretch will last until Thursday when a cold front moves in, bringing rain and possibly thunderstorms. Although temperatures will remain pleasant for a few days, the end of March could bring a cool-down, with the possibility of spring snow returning in early April.
Travel and Weather Tips
If you’re traveling in northern Ontario this week, be prepared for hazardous road conditions. Keep an eye on weather alerts and check for road closures before heading out. In the south, take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts, as it could be short-lived.
