Midwestern Ontarians are once again bracing for a significant winter storm.
Environment Canada has the entire region under an orange-coded blizzard warning with flurries and snow squalls Monday morning switching to blizzard conditions in the afternoon.
Total snowfall amounts will vary depending on where you are from 10 centimetres to 25 centimetres in Huron and Perth counties, to up to 40 centimetres in Grey and Bruce counties. Wind gusts up to 80 kilometres an hour from the west will cause snow to blow and drift.
"Travel will be dangerous and likely impossible due to near-zero visibility," Environment Canada warned. "Avoid travel and outdoor activities, if possible. If you must travel, have an emergency plan. Protect yourself from wind, cold and disorientation by staying sheltered, indoors or with your vehicle. If you become lost or stranded, remain where you are until conditions improve."
West Region OPP reminded drivers who do have to venture out to slow down and drive according to road and weather conditions.
"Roadways and highways are slick, slippery, and icy in certain areas,” Sergeant Ed Sanchuk said in a video posted to social media. “We’re getting reports of vehicles crashing into the concrete medians and other vehicles ending up in the ditch.”
He added that drivers need to reduce their speed.
Ahead of the blizzard, all school buses were cancelled in Huron and Perth counties, while schools were closed in Grey-Bruce and northern Wellington County. Scheduled jury selection at the Walkerton courthouse that had been planned to begin on Monday had to be postponed. All of those summoned to attend are now required to go to the courthouse at 9 a.m. on Wednesday.
Grey County has declared a significant weather event.
Blizzard conditions are expected to improve Monday night as winds diminish, Environment Canada said.
