Lake-Effect Snow Returns: Up to 30 cm Expected, Travel Warnings Issued

A new round of lake-effect snow is expected to hit the region, with authorities warning that conditions could deteriorate rapidly starting late Wednesday.

A yellow weather watch has been issued as snow squalls from Lake Huron and Georgian Bay are forecast to develop Wednesday night and continue through Thursday afternoon. Local snowfall could reach 15 to 30 cm, with visibility sharply reduced in heavy snow and blowing snow.

Northwesterly winds are expected to gust between 50 and 60 km/h, worsening blowing snow and creating hazardous travel conditions. While weather is likely to improve by Thursday evening, forecasters say there is still uncertainty about where the heaviest snow bands will occur.

Drivers are advised to prepare for sudden changes in weather, as visibility may drop near zero and road closures are possible.

This comes just days after a major early-season storm over the past weekend, which brought 43 cm of snow to Barrie.

A new colour-coded alert system has also been introduced: yellow indicates hazardous weather to be aware of, orange signals likely severe weather, and red warns of serious conditions that could threaten safety, property, and health.