Two different storm systems hit the Sault region this weekend, bringing a mix of high-impact weather conditions. The exact path of the storm is still somewhat uncertain. However, the worst-case scenario is that a significant freezing rain event shuts down local highways and causes widespread power outages. The best-case scenario is still formidable, but we would see several brief periods of freezing rain, with periods of heavy rain and even snow.
Friday will be cloudy, with a few flurries possible in the morning as temperatures climb to the freezing mark. Later in the afternoon and this evening, a mix of ice pellets and freezing rain will move into the region. The Sault area lies along the boundary between these precipitation types, with heavy snow expected north of the city. If freezing rain is the dominant precipitation type, we will see significant icing, leading to treacherous road conditions, potential downed trees, and power outages. Areas well north of the city could see 15-25cm of snow by Saturday morning.
The freezing rain will end before sunrise on Saturday, and we might see some brief sun as daytime highs climb to +3°C in the afternoon.
We could see more freezing rain on Sunday, but temperatures will reach +2°C, and heavy rain will arrive in the evening. Cold air will arrive overnight, bringing a blast of snow for early Monday morning.