Just two days after Essex County received a snowfall warning that 15 to 20 centimetres were forecast for Sunday, forecasters are warning of significant weather across eastern Canada, moving up from Texas, into the Toronto region and to the Maritimes. Beginning Thursday evening areas north of Barrie and Ottawa can expect up to 10 centimetres of snow. Areas south of there can expect more rain, ice pellets or freezing rain.
Through southern Ontario a major ice storm could wreak havoc and bring significant amounts of freezing rain; according to Environment Canada areas around Ontarios Highway 401 have the greatest likelihood for downed trees and power lines. Quebec may also be hit by the storm on Saturday evening through Sunday bringing ice pellets and freezing rain.
Several disturbances originating in Texas are expected to move towards the Lower Great Lakes starting Friday. A storm track will set up from the Midwest U.S. east to Southern Quebec, Environment Canada said in a statement to the National Post.
There is some uncertainty surrounding the exact position of the storm track, but Environmental Canada believes that there is a good chance holiday travels will be interrupted.
The American Auto Association estimates that more than 85.8 million people will be travelling by car through the holiday season, December 21st through January 1st.
If you or a loved one intend to drive this holiday season there are several ways to protect yourself and be prepared for bad weather.
- Get your vehicle checked and ensure that it can handle snow, ice, or sleet. If renting a vehicle make sure it is equipped to handle bad weather.
- Reduce your speed and allow more space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
- Watch for black ice which can make the road look wet or slick when it is actually covered in ice.
Additionally, make sure you have emergency service numbers available in case a car accident occurs or your vehicle stalls out.
The team of personal injury lawyers and support staff at Greg Monforton and Partners would like to wish readers safe holiday travels and a happy holiday season!