Winter Storm Triggers Over 50 Crashes in Southwestern Ontario
Southwestern Ontario is experiencing a significant winter storm, triggering over 50 vehicle crashes since Sunday morning. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported responding to 57 incidents by 8 a.m. as hazardous conditions spread across the region. The storm has prompted authorities to caution residents to avoid all non-essential travel.
Winter Storm Impact on Road Safety
Sgt. Ed Sanchuk of the West Region OPP emphasized the risks posed by slick and slippery roadways. He urged residents in the London area to remain at home to ensure their safety. The heavy snowfall is expected to accumulate between 10 to 15 centimeters, leading to difficult driving conditions throughout the day.
Weather Warnings and Preparations
- Environment Canada has issued a yellow snowfall warning for London.
- Temperatures are anticipated to drop to -23°C, with winds making it feel even colder.
- Heavy snowfall is forecasted to ease by late evening, with expectations of clearing by early Monday morning.
Driving Conditions and Advice
The OPP is advising drivers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. For those who must travel, Sanchuk recommends keeping headlights on, driving according to weather conditions, and ensuring vehicles are well-fueled. Unexpected changes, such as whiteout conditions, may arise.
Flight Disruptions Throughout the Region
Travel has also been affected at local airports. London International Airport has seen multiple flight cancellations and delays. Passengers traveling to and from Toronto and Calgary have been particularly impacted. Nearby Toronto is under a more severe orange weather warning, resulting in the cancellation of over half of flights at Pearson and Billy Bishop airports.
Broader Weather Effects
This winter storm is part of a larger low-pressure system originating from the United States. The storm has contributed to power outages affecting over 500,000 individuals and a surge in flight cancellations across several regions.
Cold Weather Precautions
The region is coming out of a deep freeze where temperatures fell below -30°C. Following this, there has been increased demand for road salt, complicating winter maintenance efforts. The City of St. Thomas has declared a significant weather event, emphasizing the need for caution on city streets and sidewalks.
Future Weather Outlook
Looking ahead, overnight temperatures are forecasted to drop to -14°C, with a wind chill making it feel like -23°C. An additional 2 to 4 centimeters of snow is anticipated on Monday, which may lead to further travel difficulties. As the storm passes, temperatures will remain notably below seasonal averages.
Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the winter storm continues to impact southwestern Ontario.
