Sault Ste. Marie Under Winter Storm Warning With Snow

Sault Ste. Marie continues to experience severe winter conditions as it remains under a winter storm warning. This morning, heavy snowfall, coupled with gusty winds and slippery roads, has created hazardous travel scenarios for residents and visitors alike. According to reports, as of 6:27 AM on March 20, 2025, the temperature stands at -0.9°C with light snow falling, reducing visibility to just 1.2 kilometers due to blowing snow. This weather is compounded by a humidity level of 99%, making it feel even colder at approximately -7°C.

The barometric pressure at this hour is measured at 100.1 kPa and is on the rise, indicating that conditions may improve later today. However, this improvement might be slow, as up to 2 more centimeters of snow is expected before conditions start to clear up this morning. Winds from the northwest will strengthen throughout the day, reaching speeds of 40 km/h and gusting up to 60 km/h. Given these conditions, residents are advised to exercise caution.

As the storm begins to wind down, temperatures are projected to peak at around 0°C. Nevertheless, due to the harsh winds, it will feel much colder—approximately -13°C this morning as the wind chill factor takes effect. In addition to the cold, the UV index reading is moderate at 4, suggesting that if the sun emerges, it could reflect harshly against the fresh snow.

Tonight, the skies are expected to gradually clear up, although some clouds may roll in after midnight. The northwest winds will temper to about 30 km/h before shifting to a southerly direction at 20 km/h overnight. As temperatures drop to a chilly -6°C, the wind chill is forecasted to make it feel like a brisk -10°C.

As we look toward tomorrow, the weather is expected to start dry before conditions deteriorate again. Clouds will begin to assemble by the afternoon, leading to a 60% chance of rain showers or flurries starting late in the day. Winds will shift to the southwest at 30 km/h gusting to 50 km/h, while temperatures will rise to a high of 3°C. However, the morning wind chill is anticipated to maintain a frosty -9°C.

The weekend forecast does not offer much reprieve from the cold. On Saturday, expect a mix of sun and clouds with a 30% chance of flurries. The high temperature will reach -6°C, dropping to as low as -14°C at night as clear skies return. Sunday will bring slightly warmer weather but still chilly, with temperatures climbing to a high of -2°C, though precipitation may return overnight, bringing more snow to the area.

Residents are advised to bundle up during these wintry days. A decent winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat are considered essential gear against the biting cold. Additionally, the blowing snow may necessitate protective eyewear, such as goggles or sunglasses, for those venturing outdoors for long periods.

Historical records highlight that March in Sault Ste. Marie is notorious for late-season snowstorms. The most notable instance was in 1965 when over 30 cm of snow fell in just one day on March 20, making today’s significant snowfall of 2 cm seem almost mild in comparison. As history has shown, winter’s grip can be difficult to shake off as the season transitions.

For additional details on weather conditions and ongoing forecasts, residents can stay tuned to local news outlets, including updates from Environment Canada, to keep abreast of changing weather patterns. The city's continued watch for snow or mixed precipitation over the coming days emphasizes the ongoing grip of winter.