Blast of winter turns Ontario roadways into skating rinks
theweathernetwork.com
Friday, January 30, 2015, 11:24 AM - The snow and freezing temperatures experienced in Ontario Thursday night and into Friday morning had a trickle down effect to the roads and major highways, turning many of the main arteries into skating rinks. Ontario Provincial Police are cautioning drivers to adjust to blowing and drifting snow conditions, and plan ahead before heading out on the roads.
Blowing and drifting snow - today's message is simple -all headlights on, clear the snow from your car and if you see snow, go slow!!!
— Ontario Prov Police (@OPP_News) January 30, 2015
The roadways affected stretch from Windsor, Ont., all the way along Highway 401 to Trenton, Ont., where drivers are reporting conditions have a section of the highway at a complete stop between Belleville, Ont., and Trenton. The video above was taken by The Weather Network's Rachel Schoutsen in the London, Ont., area.
Police are advising drivers to adapt driving speeds and habits to the conditions, and be wary of road conditions that may become icy due to the freezing temperatures. Southern Ontario is expected to see wind chills in the minus double-digits all weekend, and we are keeping an eye on a system that is currently tracking south of the region for Sunday night and Monday morning. As of now no snowfall is expected.
Weather Network vehicles were on Highway 401 Friday and captured scenes of cars and trucks skidding off the roadways due to the conditions. The blowing and drifting snow is capable of causing whiteout conditions.
Before you head out, be sure to check our current highway conditions map for updates or visit BeatTheTraffic.com for alternative routes to your destination.