Spring Snowstorm Hits Ottawa Valley: Significant Snowfall Expected

A significant snowfall is forecast to hit the Ottawa Valley, with Environment Canada issuing a snowfall warning for several regions including Renfrew, Arnprior, Perth, Smiths Falls, and Carleton Place. The warning highlights the potential for total snowfall amounts of 15 to 30 centimetres and peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 centimetres per hour. The snow is expected to start on Wednesday afternoon and taper off by Thursday.

Visibility is likely to be reduced in areas experiencing heavy snowfall. The transition from rain to snow is anticipated to begin late tonight or early Wednesday morning. The Haliburton Highlands region might witness the earliest changeover to snow. The snowfall will continue through Wednesday night before gradually tapering off on Thursday.

Due to temperatures hovering near the freezing mark, the snow forecasted by Environment Canada could be wet and heavy in nature, increasing the risk of local utility outages. The agency advised caution as rapidly accumulating snow may cause travel difficulties in some areas.