A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Exeter, Goderich, Bluewater, and Southern Huron County, with heavy snowfall and dangerous conditions expected throughout the weekend.
Forecasters say the region could see between 20 to 30 cm of total snowfall. At its heaviest, snow could fall at a rate of 3 to 6 cm per hour. Visibility will be significantly reduced due to blowing snow, and roads are expected to become very slippery. There is also a chance of light ice build-up from freezing drizzle.
Snow began this morning and will continue through Sunday evening, with the heaviest snowfall expected on Sunday. By late Saturday evening, up to 10 cm of snow is expected, with the possibility of freezing drizzle overnight. Conditions will get much worse Sunday morning as a stronger weather system moves in, bringing an additional 10 to 20 cm of snow along with high winds, making travel very dangerous.
Authorities are advising people to avoid non-essential travel, especially on Sunday when road conditions are expected to be at their worst. Rapid snowfall and strong winds will make it difficult to see while driving, and roads may become impassable in some areas. Public Safety Canada is encouraging everyone to be prepared by having an emergency kit ready with food, water, medicine, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.