Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for all of the Kawarthas, forecasting a major late winter storm with freezing rain on Saturday night (February 23) and damaging winds and blowing snow on Sunday night.
Precipitation associated with a winter storm may begin as patchy freezing rain Saturday evening before becoming rain overnight or early Sunday morning.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Damaging westerly winds with gusts of 90 to 110 km/h are expected to develop Sunday. Areas near the Great Lakes are more likely to experience winds at the higher end of this range. The strong winds will persist through Sunday night and gradually diminish Monday.
Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. Power outages are also possible.
In addition, flurries and blowing snow will develop Sunday afternoon. Local snowfall amounts in the 5 to 10 cm range are possible by Monday morning. Any fresh snow that falls will be whipped up by the very strong winds creating whiteout conditions at times.
Travel will become hazardous due to significant and sudden reduction to visibility.
Freezing rain warnings may be required. Wind warnings will likely be required for some areas.
