City under freezing rain warning

Freezing rain is headed our way tonight, as two weather forces are colliding to spread winter weather across southern and Northern Ontario.

Warm, foggy weather this afternoon will give way to snow and ice pellets this evening, as the effects of the two fronts is expected to continue through the weekend.

“A Colorado Low and Alberta Clipper will join forces and bring stormy weather to Ontario (from) Thursday through Saturday,” wrote Weather Network meteorologist Dayna Vettese on their website.

“This is a complex system that will dump everything but the kitchen sink in southern Ontario, but will be a potent winter storm with heavy snow and winds in Northern Ontario.

“An area of Sault Ste. Marie east to North Bay will likely experience some form of mixed precipitation, including the risk for freezing rain and even a period of rain.”

The low-pressure system will be stationed high in the northern part of Ontario, bringing snow and rain across much of the North through to Sunday.

Environment Canada warns that surfaces will quickly become icy and slippery when the freezing rain moves in. Travellers should adjust their plans accordingly and avoid driving if possible.

Travellers are urged to check highway conditions and for possible highway closures. When dealing with freezing rain, Environment Canada advises taking a few precautions, including:

–Ice from freezing rain accumulates on branches, power lines and buildings. If you must go outside, pay attention to branches or wires that could break due to the weight of the ice and fall on you. Ice sheets could also do the same.

-Remember also that ice, branches or power lines can continue to break and fall for several hours after the end of the precipitation. Never touch power lines. A hanging power line could be charged (live) and you would run the risk of electrocution.

- If possible, avoid driving when freezing rain is forecast. Even a small amount of freezing rain can make roads extremely slippery. Wait several hours after freezing rain ends so that road maintenance crews have enough time to spread sand or salt.

In past freezing rain storms, the city has urged citizens to clear snow and ice from catch basins near their homes to carry rainwater and snow melt away from properties and streets.

The freeze-thaw cycle will also create potholes on local roads. Motorists can lessen the chances of damage to their vehicles by reducing speed, maintaining optimum tire pressure, and by keeping the steering wheel straight and avoiding sudden braking when encountering a pothole.

Flooding and potholes can be reported to the City of Greater Sudbury 24-hours a day by calling 311.