By Chetan Sharma
A powerful late-season system is set to bring another round of winter weather to northwestern Ontario, with a spring snowstorm expected to begin Monday night and continue through Tuesday evening. Forecasters say the region could receive between 10 and 15 centimetres of snow, with some areas near Lake Superior potentially seeing higher totals if the system shifts.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued special weather statements across a wide stretch of the region, including Thunder Bay, Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, Nipigon, Marathon and several surrounding communities. The storm, driven by a Colorado Low moving northeast, is already producing snowfall in southern Manitoba and is expected to advance eastward into Ontario later Monday.
The timing and track of the system remain uncertain, a factor meteorologists say could significantly impact snowfall distribution. “The axis of heaviest snowfall could shift,” officials warned, meaning some communities could see more intense accumulation than currently forecast.
Heavy snow expected as storm tracks toward Lake Superior
Snow is forecast to begin Monday night, gradually intensifying overnight before continuing through much of Tuesday. Areas along the northern shore of Lake Superior, including Thunder Bay, are expected to see the heaviest snowfall due to enhanced moisture and localized effects.
In contrast, communities closer to the Minnesota border may experience relatively lower snowfall totals, highlighting the uneven nature of the system. Still, even lighter accumulations could create hazardous conditions, particularly as temperatures remain below seasonal norms.
The storm’s origin—a Colorado Low—is known for carrying substantial moisture, often resulting in widespread precipitation events across central Canada. In this case, that moisture is translating into another significant snowfall for a region already dealing with an unusually snowy winter.
Snowfall totals already far above normal
The incoming system will add to what has already been a remarkable stretch of winter weather. Thunder Bay recorded approximately 60 centimetres of snow in February, more than double the long-term monthly average of 27 centimetres.
March has followed a similar pattern. So far, around 43 centimetres of snow has been recorded, again far exceeding the typical monthly average of just under 27 centimetres. If this latest storm delivers as expected, it could push March totals close to the highest levels seen in recent years.
According to meteorologists, this would make March 2026 one of the snowiest since 2022, when 67.6 centimetres of snow was recorded in the Thunder Bay area. The repeated snowfall events have kept snowpack levels high and delayed the usual transition into spring.
“We’re continuing to see snowfall totals surpass monthly averages,” a weather official noted, underscoring how persistent winter conditions have been across the region.
Travel risks increase as conditions deteriorate
With snow expected to accumulate steadily, travel conditions are likely to worsen quickly. Authorities are warning that roads and walkways may become difficult to navigate, particularly during periods of heavier snowfall.
Untreated roads could turn icy and slippery, while visibility may drop during intense snow bands. Motorists are being advised to allow extra time for travel and to exercise caution, especially during early morning and evening hours.
The impact won’t be limited to highways. Snow-covered sidewalks and urban streets may also pose challenges, raising concerns about accessibility and safety for pedestrians.
Officials are encouraging residents to monitor updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada and to report severe weather conditions when necessary.
Colder temperatures to linger into early April
Adding to the impact of the storm is a stretch of colder-than-normal temperatures expected to persist in the coming days. Daytime highs are forecast to struggle to rise above the freezing mark, significantly below the typical seasonal average of around 5°C for this time of year.
This means snow from the storm is unlikely to melt quickly, prolonging its effects on transportation and daily routines. Overnight freezes could further increase the risk of icy surfaces across the region.
Looking ahead, meteorologists say more seasonal temperatures may return in April, but for now, winter conditions are holding firm.
Winter grip continues despite spring calendar
Despite the arrival of spring on the calendar, northwestern Ontario continues to experience conditions more typical of mid-winter. The latest snowstorm serves as a reminder of how variable the season can be, particularly in regions influenced by large-scale weather systems like the Colorado Low.
For residents across communities such as Armstrong, Atikokan, Red Lake, Sioux Lookout, Wawa and beyond, preparation remains key. Whether it’s adjusting travel plans, preparing for snow clearing, or staying informed through official alerts, readiness will be essential as the storm moves through.
With uncertainty still surrounding the storm’s exact path, conditions could evolve quickly. But one thing is certain—northwestern Ontario is not done with winter just yet.
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