Significant weather events issued amid blowing snow and reduced visibility

Town facilities have been closed in Penetanguishene due to snow squalls while other townships declare weather events.

Simcoe County townships have declared Significant Weather Events on Friday as heavy, blowing snow create hazardous road conditions with near-zero visibility.

Oro-Medonte, Springwater, and Tiny townships made the declaration on Friday due to the intense conditions.

The declaration is to notify the public that because of the weather, caution should be taken when travelling on Township-maintained roads “as it may take longer than usual to bring the roads back to optimal conditions.”

Officials are echoing police warnings to avoid unnecessary travel.

A multi-vehicle collision on Highway 11 Friday stranded motorists, forced highway closures and considerable traffic backlogs.

Blowing snow and reduced visibility have forced the closure of several roads in Springwater, including:

• Flos Road 4 West
• Flos Road 6 West
• Flos Road 7 West
• Flos Rd 8 West
• Flos Road 10 West
• Flos Road 11 West
• Tiny-Flos Townline
• Vigo Road from County Road 92 to Flos Road 4 West
• Ushers Road from Tiny-Flos Townline to Flos Road 7 West

The Township of Oro-Medonte said road closures could be necessary, but did not list any current closures.

Weather Warning

Environment Canada issued a snow squall warning for the region on Friday, noting intense snow squalls creating near-zero visibility on the roads.

The national weather agency stated lake-effect snow squalls off Georgian Bay are expected throughout the day, but should improve by the evening hours.

Upwards of 20 centimetres of snow accumulation is possible.

The Township will issue a public notice once the significant weather event is lifted.