Winter storm warnings in effect for Timmins, the Sault

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

Heavy snow is expected in Timmins and Sault Ste. Marie beginning Wednesday afternoon, Environment Canada says. And North Bay and Sudbury could see heavy rain.

Up to 40 cm of snow could fall in the Timmins area, while the Sault may see up to 20 cm before it tapers off Thursday morning.

“Heavy snow is expected to begin this afternoon,” the warning said in Timmins.

" Northerly winds gusting to 50 km/h will result in areas of blowing snow, further reducing visibility."

Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations, with residents being urged to avoid travel if possible.

“Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow,” the warning said.

“Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays.”

Freezing rain is also possible in the Sault.

“Current indications suggest that a rain-snow transition line will stretch from Sault Ste. Marie northeast towards Kirkland Lake,” Environment Canada said.

“Along this transition line, freezing rain is expected. North of the transition line, precipitation will be heavy snow possibly mixed with ice pellets. South of this line, precipitation will mainly fall as rain. Precipitation is expected to change over to snow tonight before tapering off Thursday morning.”

Special weather statement

Driving is expected to be affected either by the snow or freezing rain.

“Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve,” the warning said.

There’s also a special weather statement in effect for areas in and around North Bay and Sudbury, where up to 25 mm of rain could fall beginning early Wednesday afternoon.

“A low-pressure system will bring rain to the area beginning early this afternoon,” Environment Canada said.

“Rain may change to freezing rain early Thursday morning before transitioning to snow Thursday afternoon. A freezing rain warning may be issued as this event approaches.”