Spring storm could bring up to 20 cm of snow to northern Ontario this weekend

Friday, April 4, 2014, 8:21 AM -

Freezing rain, snowfall and winter storm warnings. 

Doesn't sound much like spring, but another storm is threatening northern Ontario with more wintry weather.

"A classic spring storm in the form of a Colorado Low will bring heavy snow to northern Ontario and moderate rain to southern Ontario with the risk of scattered thunderstorm activity in southwestern Ontario," says Weather Network meteorologist Dayna Vettese.

Snow associated with this storm will spread into northeastern Ontario Friday with the risk of ice pellets mixing in.

SEE ALSO: Canada claims top spot for worst March weather...again

According to Vettese, a line from Sault Ste Marie to Sudbury to the Quebec border will be roughly the rain-snow line with mixing along that point (this line can include some ice pellets and freezing rain).

"Areas south of the aforementioned line will receive rain and areas north of the aforementioned line will receive snow," Vettese says.

In addition to the snow, brisk northeasterly winds are expected, which could result in local blowing snow in exposed areas.

"Motorists should consider avoiding travel overnight and Friday if possible," EC warns. "Driving conditions will quickly deteriorate and become hazardous due to low visibility in areas of heavy snow and blowing snow, and accumulating snow on untreated roads."

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This latest wintry blast comes after parts of the region were buried in upwards of 50 cm of snow earlier this week.

"As was the case for the winter, Canada holds the trophy AGAIN for the most below seasonal region on the planet in March," says Vettese.

Several major cities including Kenora and Toronto managed to almost DOUBLE their normal March snowfall amounts."