Sarnia-Lambton is under a winter storm warning as Environment Canada warns that ‘travel will become hazardous’ into the weekend, with damaging winds, extensive blowing snow, and flash-freeze conditions.
Precipitation is expected to begin as rain or snow Thursday, before transitioning to rain for many areas into the night. Temperatures are then expected to plummet Friday morning, leading to a potential flash freeze, the agency said.
Rapidly falling temperatures will be accompanied by damaging winds along with extensive snow and frigid wind chills, persisting into the weekend.
Wind gusts of 90km to 100 km will create widespread blowing snow, reducing visibility, with snow amounts of five to 15cm expected by Friday night.
“Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve,” Environment Canada said. “Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.”
Meanwhile, students in the Lambton Kent District School Board were being encouraged to take home any personal items that they might need during the holiday break, on Thursday.
“Please watch the LKDSB website, social media, check the MySBI app or Student Transportation website on Friday, December 23 for school bus updates,” a letter noted.
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. For information on emergency plans and kits go to http://www.getprepared.gc.ca.