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Freezing rain warning issued for Sault, surrounding communities

Wind gusts may reduce visibility, affect damaged trees, Environment Canada warns
icy road winter
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Some less than ideal weather appears headed our way with Environment Canada issuing a freezing rain warning for Wednesday that covers the Sault and most of the Algoma District.

A warning has also been issued for Wawa, although less ice buildup is expected there.

Environment Canada says freezing rain with ice accretion of 2 to 5 mm on some surfaces is possible, with buildup of 1 to 3 mm further north.

The weather event will take place Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday night.

"Snow and ice pellets will begin Wednesday morning or early Wednesday afternoon before transitioning to freezing rain Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday evening," Environment Canada said.

"Prior to the transition to freezing rain, snowfall amounts up to 5 cm may occur over some locations."

"Easterly winds gusting to near 50 km/h, except up to 70 km/h for locations near to the North Channel to Sault Ste. Marie may lead to areas of reduced visibility in blowing snow."

"These gusty winds may also exacerbate any tree damage."

As temperatures rise above the freezing mark Wednesday night into early Thursday morning, precipitation is expected to change over to drizzle or light rain, the weather agency said.

"Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Ice build-up may cause tree branches to break."

"Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas."

The freezing rain warning was issued for:
   Searchmont - Montreal River Harbour - Batchawana Bay
   Sault Ste. Marie - St. Joseph Island
   Greater Sudbury and vicinity
   Elliot Lake - Ranger Lake
   North Bay - West Nipissing
   Manitoulin - Blind River - Killarney

Environment Canada said for communities to the north and east, they can expect freezing rain with ice accretion of 1 to 3 mm on some surfaces.

"Precipitation will begin as snow and ice pellets Wednesday afternoon before transitioning to freezing rain Wednesday night."

"Prior to the transition to freezing rain, snowfall amounts up to 10 cm may occur over some locations, particularly northeast of Lake Superior. Easterly winds gusting to near 50 km/h may lead to areas of reduced visibility in blowing snow."

This separate warning applies to:
   Wawa - White River - Pukaskwa
   Agawa - Lake Superior Park
   Timmins - Cochrane - Iroquois Falls
   Chapleau - Gogama
   Kirkland Lake - Temiskaming Shores - Temagami

Parts of central Ontario that were blanketed in ice over the weekend are expected to get more freezing rain as well, although it is not expected to be as bad this time.



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