WELLINGTON COUNTY – Weather officials say heavy snowfall and strong winds could create hazardous driving conditions on Saturday.
In a special weather statement, Environment Canada predicts the Wellington County area could see 15 to 20cm (six to eight inches) of snow, starting early Saturday morning.
“Strong winds gusting up to 60 km/h will create areas of local blowing snow,” the statement reads. “A brief period of rain is possible late Saturday. The snow or rain will ease to flurries overnight Saturday night.”
The Weather Network is predicting about 20cm (eight inches) of snow on Saturday, starting at about 4am.
Officials are also warning residents of hazardous travel conditions on local roads.
“Slow down, stay alert and stay in control – these simple steps will go a long way in reducing the number of winter weather-related collisions on our roads,” states Inspector Shawn Johnson of the OPP West Region’s traffic and marine unit.
The Jan. 17 OPP press release also reminds drivers to give themselves extra time to get to and from their destination and to leave adequate space between vehicles.
Police are suggesting “it may be a good idea to stay home,” but provide the following safety tips if residents have to drive:
- check 511on.ca or @511ONWest on Twitter for road conditions and road closures;
- ensure full exterior lights are on and working properly on vehicles;
- clear snow from the entire vehicle, including and head and taillights and do a circle check of the vehicle;
- ensure the fuel tank is full to prevent running out of gas if stranded and to prevent condensation in the tank;
- pack an emergency travel kit (food, blanket, candle, extra cell phone power) to prepare for the possibility of being stranded/stuck; and
- bring an extra jug of windshield washer fluid.
