Major winter storm headed toward Sudbury, North Bay

Rick Wyman has all the weather details you need to know for northeastern Ontario and what to expect for the next seven days.

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch for areas in and around North Bay and Sudbury, with heavy winds and up to 40 cm of snow expected later this week.

“Highly impactful winter storm likely Wednesday evening into Thursday,” Environment Canada said in a statement.

Snowfall could exceed five centimetres per hour, with poor visibility in heavy snow and local blowing snow beginning Wednesday evening and diminishing Thursday afternoon.

“Confidence is increasing that a major winter storm will affect portions of southern and northeastern Ontario,” the statement said.

“The track of the low-pressure system responsible is still somewhat uncertain, which will affect exact snowfall amounts. Northeasterly winds gusting to 50 km/h will result in areas of blowing snow, giving reduced visibility.”

Should the storm arrive, residents should avoid travel if possible.

“If you must travel, keep others informed of your schedule and destination and carry an emergency kit and mobile phone,” Environment Canada said.

“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.”

Click here for information on emergency plans.