The Thunder Bay area in northwestern Ontario faces another wave of heavy snow this week. Residents anticipate 10 to 20 centimetres of fresh snowfall by Saturday afternoon, following nearly 30 centimetres accumulated over the past two days.
Active Snowfall Warnings
A snowfall warning currently covers Thunder Bay, Nipigon, Rossport, Armstrong, and Beardmore. A band of snow moves slowly westward across the region, though its full western reach remains uncertain. Areas like Thunder Bay, Raith, and points west could see reduced amounts. Highways 11 and 17 may experience disruptions due to the storm.
Recent Heavy Snowfall
This new system follows a powerful weather event that originated over Montana and swept into the Canadian prairies. Provinces including Manitoba and Saskatchewan endured widespread heavy snow and strong winds. In the Thunder Bay area, observation stations southwest of the international airport and near Silver Harbour recorded 24 to 32 centimetres.
Snow Clearing Challenges
City officials report tough conditions for snow removal crews. Strong winds have caused significant drifting, complicating travel in various neighborhoods. Over 20 centimetres fell in the last 24 hours alone, demanding ongoing plowing of streets and sidewalks.
“As snowfall continues, crews will continue to monitor conditions and conduct additional plowing as required,” states a city update. “The significant accumulation also requires the use of snow blower equipment in some areas, which increases the time needed to complete service.”
Thunder Bay launched an online map earlier this month, offering real-time tracking of nearly 40 snowplows in action.
School Buses Operate Normally
Despite the snow buildup, school buses in Thunder Bay ran on schedule Friday morning. Student Transportation Services deemed rural and city roads manageable for operations.
