Some communities in southern Ontario's "snow-belt" woke up to some impressive snowfall totals from the snow squall that went through the Angus, ON area last night into early Friday morning.
The Collingwood area was hit especially hard with close to 40cm fell overnight according to local residents, burying cars and prompting school bus cancellations.
Snow squall watches/warnings were issued by Environment Canada yesterday and early this morning, which warned of potential snowfall. However, snowfall far exceeded forecast model predictions and warned totals.
2:58p SNOW SQUALL WARNING ISSUED by Environment Canada
(Locations listed below description)
Persistent snow squalls are expected. Under the snow squall bands, visibilities will be significantly reduced due to the heavy snow combined with blowing snow, and snow will quickly accumulate.
Snow squalls expected into friday.
A snow squall is expected to pass through the region late this afternoon along a cold front. Northwesterly winds in behind the cold front will result in the development of snow squalls this evening that will persist into friday.
Some areas may see in excess of 15 cm by friday morning.
Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably; changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common. Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.
Snow squall warnings are issued when bands of snow form that produce intense accumulating snow or near zero visibilities.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to onstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #onstorm.
NEW:
- Angus - Barrie - Collingwood - Hillsdale - Innisfil - Mansfield - New Tecumseth - Northern Dufferin County - Shelburne