Residents across Huron County are being warned to prepare for dangerous winter weather as a high-impact snow squall continues to affect the region.
An Orange Warning for snow squalls remains in effect, with near zero visibility caused by heavy snow and strong blowing snow. Environment officials say an additional 20 to 40 centimetres of snow is expected through Wednesday afternoon, with some areas possibly receiving more than 50 centimetres by Thursday morning. The warning is expected to last through today and may continue into Thursday for some locations.
The snow is being driven by lake effect weather off Lake Huron, combined with strong northwesterly winds gusting between 50 and 70 kilometres per hour. While winds are expected to ease later today, snow bands may strengthen again tonight and into Wednesday. Travel conditions are expected to change quickly and may become dangerous with little warning.
Officials say travel will likely be extremely hazardous, with some roads becoming impassable. Road closures are likely, and residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel. Prolonged disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities are also possible.
To help keep the public informed, Huron County OPP are now using Municipal 511 as their main source for emergency winter road closure information. Road closures ordered by police due to severe weather will be posted on the Municipal 511 website around the clock. This system provides live updates, shows the exact location of closures on an interactive map, and helps keep navigation apps up to date.
Police remind drivers that road closures are put in place to protect public safety, allow emergency response, and prevent damage or injury. Disobeying a police road closure or traffic direction is an offence under the Highway Traffic Act and can result in fines, including higher penalties in community safety zones.
Before heading out, residents are encouraged to check Municipal 511 or call 5-1-1 for the latest road conditions. With severe winter weather continuing, staying informed and avoiding travel when possible can help keep everyone safe.
As of Tuesday morning, major highways and county roads in Bruce, Huron, Perth and surrounding areas are closed due to poor visibility, blowing snow, and unsafe road conditions. Closures include sections of Highway 4 between Wingham, Clinton and Exeter, Highway 83 is closed at Port Blake, Highway 21 from Amberley to Port Elgin, Highway 9 between Kincardine and Walkerton, Hwy 23 from Hwy 7 to Mitchell and Highway 23 from Mitchell to Palmerston. Several Bruce County and Perth County roads are also closed.
Written by: K. Milhomens