Environment Canada has issued a yellow weather warning for snowfall, anticipating 10 to 20 cm of snow throughout Sunday. This snowfall may lead to reduced visibility due to heavy snow, both falling and blowing.
According to meteorologist Samantha Mauti, expect tough conditions with gusting winds reaching up to 50 km/h. The morning wind chill could feel as low as -25°C, warming slightly to -19°C in the afternoon. This warning is a reminder of the impact such weather can have on travel.
Traveling during this weather could be difficult. Roads may be challenging to navigate. Ontario Provincial Police Sgt. Ed Sanchuk advised, “If you must travel, slow down and leave plenty of space between vehicles.” He stressed the importance of using headlights and being prepared for sudden white-out conditions.
The snow isn’t just affecting drivers. Guelph City Hall will open as a warming center from 7 p.m. Sunday until 7 a.m. Monday to help residents stay warm. Local authorities are asking everyone to stay safe during this winter weather.
A winter parking ban is also in effect in several municipalities including Guelph, Kitchener, and Cambridge. Guelph’s ban started Sunday morning, and it’s likely to stay in place for several days to allow for snow removal. Fines for parking violations during the ban can be significant; in Kitchener, it’s $100.
GO train services will operate on a modified schedule, with some trains not running due to the weather. This helps prevent snow and ice build-up, ensuring safer travel for everyone. Commuters should take extra caution on platforms and inside stations, as conditions may be slippery.
Interestingly, this winter has felt notably snowier than usual. Frank Seglenieks from the University of Waterloo shared that the region has already received an average full winter’s amount of snow, suggesting a potential for even more accumulation as the season progresses. A recent survey indicated that 70% of residents feel more affected by winter weather this year compared to last year.
As reported by Environment and Climate Change Canada, weather alerts are color-coded from yellow to orange to red, indicating increasing levels of risk. These alerts help residents stay informed and prepared for hazardous conditions.
In times like these, community support is crucial. So, while we navigate through this harsh winter, let’s look out for one another and stay safe.
