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OVERVIEW
Environment and Climate Change Canada advised that a significant winter storm system is expected to impact a large portion of Northeastern Ontario from late Sunday through early Tuesday (March 15–17, 2026). The storm has the potential to bring heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds, resulting in hazardous conditions and potential service disruptions.
KEY HAZARDS
Significant Snowfall
- Total accumulation: Approximately 40–60 cm, with locally higher amounts possible.
- Highest snowfall amounts expected: From Sault Ste. Marie through to Timmins.
Freezing Rain / Ice Accretion
- Most likely scenario: 2–5 mm of ice accretion.
- Highest risk area: Manitoulin Island through Sudbury and east toward Quebec.
- Potential worst-case scenario: 10–15 mm of ice accretion, though this remains highly dependent on the storm track and current forecast uncertainty remains.
Blowing Snow / Strong Winds
- Wind gusts: Up to 80 km/h.
- Combined with heavy snowfall rates, significant blowing and drifting snow is expected.
Expected Impacts
- Hazardous travel conditions due to heavy snow, freezing rain, and blowing snow.
- Reduced visibility during periods of intense snowfall and strong winds.
- Potential utility disruptions due to ice accumulation and strong winds.
Possible impacts to emergency response operations and transportation networks.
