Snowfall Warning Issued as Waterloo Region Faces Winter Storm

A snowfall warning has been issued for the Waterloo Region, where residents woke up to a fresh layer of snow this morning. According to Environment Canada, the region is expected to receive between 10 and 15 cm of snow overnight from Saturday into Sunday. The forecast indicates that road conditions will be hazardous throughout the day, with snow accumulating on roadways and blowing snow significantly reducing visibility, particularly on local highways.

Meteorologist Carl Lam from 570 News reported that snowfall will be steady throughout the day, with wind gusts reaching up to 60 km/h by the afternoon. “The winds during the day are coming in from the southwest, but as we go into the evening, the cold front will start to move through, bringing colder air and northwesterly winds,” said Lam. The day’s high is expected to reach just above freezing at 1°C, but wind chill factors will make it feel closer to -12°C.

Several municipalities across the Waterloo Region, including Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge, Wilmot, Woolwich, and Wellesley, remain under snow alerts. The region experienced a significant winter storm on Friday, accumulating more than 30 cm of snow. In the Stanley Park area of Kitchener, Rob Kuhn from Environment Canada reported 33 cm of snowfall by 14:00 on Friday.

The heavy snowfall has resulted in various road closures, including a section of the westbound lanes of Highway 401 near Drumbo. On Friday, a full closure occurred from Cedar Creek Road to Oxford Road 29/Drumbo Road, effective just before noon. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported extensive delays for motorists attempting to travel eastbound on Highway 401 through Drumbo, where conditions were particularly challenging.

As the weather continues to develop, additional snowfall of 5 to 10 cm is anticipated before Sunday morning, with snow events still active across the region. Authorities advise residents to stay tuned to local news outlets, including 570 News Radio, for the latest updates on traffic and weather conditions.

The ongoing winter weather has prompted caution among commuters, as the combination of snow accumulation and high winds presents a considerable risk for travel. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and adjust their travel plans according to current conditions.