Cities declare snow event ahead of another dumping
Following messy commutes last night and this morning, drivers around Waterloo Region are looking at their third and possibly fourth tricky drive in a row.
Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory, warning of snow accumulation and blowing snow from this latest system. The snow began earlier this afternoon and it’s expected to last until around midnight.
The cities of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge have all decaled snow events. That triggers on-street parking bans which will remain in effect for at least 24 hours. The cities said vehicle left on the street, are likely to be ticketed and towed at the owners expense.
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Environment Canada Warning Preparedness Meteorologist, Peter Kimbell said it’s not only the snow that is the concern.
“The wind will become significant tonight. 20 to 40 km/h later today and 30 to 50 overnight tonight before the temperature goes above zero. Quite a roller coaster in terms of winds and temperatures.” He goes on to say, “we have a very active jet stream. So, it’s kind of one system after another in rapid succession.”
570 Meteorologist, Jessie Uppal said it’s a quickly moving Alberta Clipper that will bring between five to ten centimeters of snow.
“It will allow for quickly accumulating snow. But, also some reduced visibility at times because it is combining with some very gusty winds.”
Even as the snow tapers off overnight, there is a good possibility it will return with the strong winds again tomorrow. Kimbell says that rise in temperatures will be temporary.
“It’s opposite to what we normally expect and temperatures will go below zero again tomorrow and we could have snow squalls tomorrow.”
Uppal says the temperature swing is what could cause the squalls.
“Very strong northwest winds, combining with cold arctic air will allow for the set-up of lake effect snow squalls.”
It is yet to be seen if those squalls will appear or not. In any case, drivers should monitor conditions closely and take them into consideration if they plan to travel.
