As Ontario transitions into spring, it appears some areas, particularly in the north, will experience a fierce winter storm over the coming days. The Timmins area and other parts of northeastern Ontario are bracing for significant snowfall amounts, with predictions suggesting totals could reach up to 40 centimeters.
According to The Weather Network, a Colorado low will pull moisture up from the Gulf of Mexico as it travels across the Great Lakes on Wednesday morning, March 19, 2025. This weather system is expected to collide with a cold front over northern Ontario, leading to a wintry surprise that many residents had not anticipated this close to spring.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a winter storm watch for regions including Kapuskasing, Chapleau, White River, Elliot Lake, Kirkland Lake, Timmins, Cochrane, and Iroquois Falls. The winter storm's onset is expected to happen on Wednesday, intensifying throughout the day with peak snowfall rates of three to five centimeters per hour, totaling between 10 to 40 centimeters by the storm's conclusion on Thursday afternoon, March 20, 2025.
"Peak snowfall rates of three to five cm per hour are expected with total snowfall amounts of 10 to 40 cm," Environment Canada confirmed in its advisory, underscoring the severity of the impending storm.
Travelers are advised to remain cautious during this period, as northerly winds gusting up to 50 kilometers per hour will likely result in blowing snow and decreased visibility on highways. Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays, cautioned Environment Canada, reminding residents to exercise caution if they need to travel.
The effects of the storm will be most pronounced along Highway 17 and other routes in the northeast, where quickly accumulating snow may make conditions hazardous for commuters. Heavy snowfall is also expected in Wawa, Chapleau, Timmins, and Kapuskasing, where snowfall totals of 20 to 30 centimeters or more are likely.
"Snow will start early on Wednesday, picking up in intensity throughout the day until we see heavy snowfall rates of 2-4 cm per hour by Wednesday night," emphasized The Weather Network. As drivers navigate these challenging conditions, they are reminded that visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow.
While northern Ontario faces a harsh winter weather pattern, southern regions, including parts of southern Ontario, will experience much milder weather. Forecasts indicate sunny skies with temperatures reaching a comfortable 15 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, March 19, but rain and colder temperatures are expected by Thursday.
This sharp contrast underlines the atypical behavior of weather patterns across the province, with some communities reveling in spring-like conditions while others remain entrenched in the grips of winter. For cities at the juncture of these two systems, like Sault Ste. Marie, the storm may spell rain on Wednesday but transition to snow by Thursday, complicating travel plans and creating a mess of slushy conditions.
As northern residents brace for this impending storm, local officials urge everyone to stay informed of the latest forecasts and alerts. With many people still navigating the post-winter transition, the arrival of this significant snowfall serves as a vivid reminder that winter is still very much alive in Ontario before the full arrival of spring.
In summary, areas such as Timmins and other northern Ontario communities must prepare for heavy snow accumulation and associated travel difficulties as the Colorado low approaches. Staying updated with Environment Canada’s warnings and adhering to safety advisories will be crucial over the coming days. Residents should prepare for a mix of wintry weather and southern Ontario's pleasant spring conditions—a notable reminder of the weather diversity across the region.
