More snow events declared by area municipalities as wild winter continues

Several transport trucks were lined up on County Road 59 between Shakespeare and Tavistock last Thursday as another wintery blast created havoc on area roads. Photo courtesy of People of Tavistock Facebook group

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

This winter’s snow, wind and cold temperatures haven’t been seen in years, and according to an area meteorologist, predicting approaching weather systems is proving to be a challenge.

Julie Atchison has kept CTV London viewers up to date on the weather for a dozen years, and the first question the Gazette asked her was whether last week’s heavy snow sneaked up on her and other forecasters.

“It’s funny you should ask that because I said to my boss last week there is this sneaky, low pressure that’s coming in and it didn’t show up until the afternoon.”

Atchison said she was reviewing the forecast model in the morning. Initially, an Arctic cold front was expected to pass through, accompanied by some lake-effect snow, resulting in more localized snowfall amounts. Then, something changed.

“At about 1 p.m. I was looking at some forecast models and mine here in the weather centre started reading 30 centimetres. I was like, what is happening. Within an hour, there were snowfall warnings and everything just went like gangbusters. Things changed and escalated quickly as the day went on.”

She explained forecast models are always ingesting new data and information and a lot can change in a short period of time.

“We could see a wind shift and that could change how a snowsquall develops. We are surrounded by the Great Lakes and you can’t imagine how difficult it is to forecast because of them. It’s a difficult question to answer; why a system like that would develop so quickly.”

Atchison added that when a system tracks farther south, snowfall amounts tend to be lower. However, a northward shift over the Great Lakes can bring a mix of rain and snow due to warmer water temperatures. Looking ahead to this weekend and beyond, a deep freeze is expected with temperatures well below normal.

“We are going to see a big ridge develop in the atmosphere along the Pacific coast and a huge dip in the Jet Stream over the Great Lakes. This allows the Polar Vortex to sink south, and when that happens, a cold wave of air comes in, bringing bitterly cold air.”

The Great Lakes are currently open, but Atchison explained the frigid temperatures could change that in a hurry, something that could play a role in the extended forecast.

“When frozen, the lakes can’t moderate temperatures which is why the air is colder towards the Ottawa area and Eastern Ontario. In the extended forecast through Feb. 2, we’re seeing temperatures staying below seasonal norms. The deep freeze is officially here.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada say windchill values could range from -16°C to -30°C over the next few days. Cold temperatures elevate the risk of cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia. Cold weather can also worsen existing health conditions among the homeless, older adults, infants and children.

Area municipalities have been busy dealing with last week’s storm and another blast of winter this week. On Jan. 20, Oxford County put out a statement warning people of changing conditions.

“Environment Canada has issued a Yellow snow squall watch for the county with the potential for blowing snow and more flurries this afternoon. The rapidly falling temperatures have resulted in icy conditions on our roadways. Wind gusts this afternoon could reach 50 to 70 km/hr. Please remember to drive according to the weather conditions and always be prepared for possible power outages.”

The county also reminded motorists to turn on full lights to make sure they can see and be seen.

“Give yourself extra time to get where you are going, ensure your vehicle is clear of snow and always carry a vehicle emergency kit. Each kit should include basic tools along with warm blankets and clothes in case you get stranded,” it added.

The Township of Wilmot declared a snow event at 2 p.m. on Jan. 15.

“All on-street parking is prohibited during a snow event to allow plows to clear roads safely and efficiently. Vehicles parked on the street during the snow event may be ticketed and/or towed,” the township wrote in an alert posted on the municipality’s social media.

On Jan. 15, Oxford County closed its libraries in Tavistock, Brownsville, Ingersoll, Innerkip, Thamesford and Tillsonburg and cancelled Ox on the Run stops. Garbage and recycling pickup was also delayed in some areas, including the north portion of East-Zorra Tavistock. Crews were out on Saturday instead of Friday.

Perth County declared a Significant Weather Event on Monday afternoon due to challenging weather conditions.

“The region is currently under an Orange-level Blizzard Warning with strong westerly winds gusting to 80 km/hr. Blowing snow is causing near zero visibility in areas of the county road network,” a port to the county’s Facebook page said.