Snow squall warning issued in the Sault, up to 30 cm of snow forecast

Environment Canada has issued a snow squall warning for Sault Ste. Marie and St. Joseph Island, in effect today through Sunday.

Environment Canada weather alert map for northern Ontario. Jan. 4, 2025. (Red - Snowsquall warning or snowfall warning, Grey - special weather statement)

"Local snowfall amounts of 15 to 30 cm are possible by Sunday, with higher amounts possible if snow squalls become stationary over one area,” reads the weather alert.

"Snow squalls should diminish in intensity on Sunday morning.”

• Read More: Much of Canada is under a weather alert this weekend

Snow is expected to begin Saturday evening and continue into Sunday.

"Locally heavy snowfall with total accumulations of 15 to 30 cm, with higher amounts possible," the warning said.

"Reduced visibility at times in heavy snow and blowing snow.”

Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably, with changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common.

Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations. Road closures are possible.

“Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” said Environment Canada.

• Want more Sault Ste. Marie news? Check out its local news page

The City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event in response to the forecasted snowfall.

The City of Sault Ste. Marie declared a significant weather event in response to the forecasted snowfall on January 4, 2025. (City of Sault Ste. Marie/Facebook)

“The declaration of a significant weather event is not a notice of a reduced level of service or road closure,” reads the city news release.

“It is intended to notify the public that caution must be observed when travelling on city-maintained roads.”

City officials said that restoring the roads to optimal conditions may take longer than usual as public works staff monitor the weather and patrols the roadways to deploy all available crews to address snow and ice accumulation.

“Sidewalks should not be blocked at any time to facilitate snow removal,” said city representatives.

“Residents are reminded that the snow plowed to the end of their driveway during a significant snow event is their responsibility and may be more than usual.”

Motorists should drive according to the conditions and allow space for heavy equipment operators to clear and sand roadways safely and efficiently.

The city said its parking by-law remains in effect, with motorists not permitted to park on city streets between midnight and 6 a.m. during the winter months.

“However, during a winter event, motorists should not park on city streets or impede sidewalks during the day to assist in the efficiency of snow removal,” said staff.

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The City of Sault Ste Marie said updates will be posted to its website and social media pages as required.

Residents are encouraged to continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to [e-mail] or tweet reports using #ONStorm.