Another 50 cm of snow possible in the Sault as severe weather continues

Closures and cancellations are piling up in Sault Ste. Marie as a major winter storm continues for another day Friday. (FIle)

Closures and cancellations are piling up in Sault Ste. Marie as a major winter storm continues for another day Friday.

"Additional local accumulations up to 50 cm possible by Saturday night," Environment Canada said in a snow squall warning.

Peak snowfall rates of five centimetres per hour are expected with very poor to zero visibility at times in heavy snow and blowing snow.

"Intense bands of lake effect snow off of Lake Superior are affecting the area this morning, but may briefly shift south of the region before returning later today or this evening," the advisory said.

"Travel is expected to be difficult to nearly impossible at times under these bands. As is common with snow squalls, snowfall amounts will be highly variable with some areas capable of receiving an additional 50 cm."

The severe weather is forecast to end Saturday night.

"Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably," Environment Canada said.

"Changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common. Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Road closures are possible. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve."

To report severe weather, send an email. [e-mail]

Group Health Centre cancelled all appointments Friday because of the weather, Algoma College is closed, Algoma Public Health and the library are among the many businesses and services that have closed.

The city is urging motorists to stay off the streets and have cancelled transit services.

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There will be no garbage or recycling pick-up today and the landfill is closed until further notice.

City community centres are closed, and all programming is canceled until further notice, along with the Ronald A. Irwin Civic Centre.

"Road clearing will continue throughout the day as possible," the city said in a news release.

"Public Works continues to deploy all available crews and equipment to keep up with the falling snow and ice formation. Arterial and collector roads are prioritized, followed by residential streets."

Updates can be found on the city's website.