Large winter storm is expected to hit late Wednesday

On By Littum

A “very effective winter storm” is expected to hit the Ottawa-Gatineau area on Wednesday night, according to Environment Canada.

On Tuesday morning, the Weather Agency upgraded a special weather statement to a winter storm wall covering most of the region. A Winter Storm warning was issued on Tuesday afternoon to Western Quebec.

Forecasters say that between 20 and 40 centimeters of snow are possible over most of eastern ontario, except for communities along St. Lawrence -River and Ontario lake west of Cardinal. There is also a chance to blow up snow.

Western Quebec could see 20 to 35 centimeters of snow, including sudden, heavy bursts.

The rest of eastern ontario can expect up to 15 centimeters of snow, switch to rain or freeze rain overnight. More snow could fall if the system changes south, says Environment Canada.

The storm is expected to end Thursday afternoon in most of eastern Ontario and “Late Thursday” in western Quebec.

Avoid traveling if possible

Environment Canada recommends avoiding highway trips during the storm. Motorists who have to travel must tell someone about their plans before they take out. They are also advised to charge their mobile phones and have food, water, a flashlight and medical supply, including medicine and a first aid kit available.

Ontario Provincial Police asks drivers to slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, clear their vehicles with snow and keep scrapers, slice fluid and a small shovel available.

Motorists can check 511 in both of Ontario and Quebec For the latest information on road conditions, including live cameras. Ontario’s interactive maps also show where snowplows are.

The city of Ottawa’s Statutory Department said that there is much likely to be a Winter weather parking ban In place Wednesday. Some city parking spaces are made available.

Forecasted heights on Thursday range from 2 ° C in Kingston to –3 C in Ottawa and –5 C in Maniwaki.

Ottawa’s snowfall record for February 13 is 34.4 centimeters in 1993. The most snow registered in Ottawa International Airport over a two-day period this season was 20 centimeters in early December.