Snow squalls dump over 40 cm in parts of Ontario, threat continues into Friday

Thursday, December 12, 2013, 9:15 AM -

Widespread snow squall watches and warnings continue to cover much of Ontario Thursday.

Strong winds over the open waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay have created ideal continues for relentless squalls this week. 

"The heaviest snow squalls are crossing the Bruce Peninsula and then coming ashore again from South Bay to Parry Sound," says Environment Canada in their warning Thursday morning. "The snow squalls will drift slowly northward again this morning."

Snowfall amounts of 15 cm per 12 hours are possible in the heaviest snow squalls. 

"Should a snow squall become stationary for a few hours overnight, local snowfall amounts of 30 cm by early Friday morning are quite possible," EC adds.

So far, upwards of 30 cm of snow has been recorded in parts of Cottage Country, resulting in dangerous driving conditions across the region.

Provincial police are urging people to avoid driving in heavy snow or inclement road conditions and to stay close to home. 

Numerous drivers lost control of their vehicles Wednesday and ended up getting stuck in the snow.

"Total local snowfall amounts of 60 cm or greater from this event may be reached by Friday morning," warns EC. "Low to nil visibilities in snow and blowing snow continue to cause dangerous winter driving conditions."