Crews work to clean up more than 30 centimetres of snow that fell in the Ottawa Valley on Thursday, Feb. 13. (Sherry Haaima photo)
Weather experts are warning the public about a “highly impactful” winter storm expected this weekend across the Ottawa Valley.
On the heels of Thursday’s storm that saw more than 30 centimetres (cm) of snow fall in Renfrew County, Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning that could see total snowfall accumulations of 24-40 cm with peak snowfall rates of three-to-six cm per hour.
The snow is expected to begin this afternoon or evening and end Sunday evening, with the heaviest snow expected Sunday.
“A potent low-pressure system will bring another impactful winter storm to the area. Periods of snow will begin this afternoon bringing general snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 cm by late this evening,” reads the alert, which was posted at 4:29 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15. “Snow may become lighter tonight. Conditions will rapidly deteriorate Sunday morning as a more significant area of snow and blowing snow arrives. An additional 20 to 30 cm is likely.”
Officials say travel will be hazardous and is not recommended, particularly on Sunday. “Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve,” reads the alert.
Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight. For information on emergency plans and kits go to getprepared.gc.ca.
The public is asked to please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)