Winter storm hammers the region with another 30-50 cm possible before it eases

A dangerous day out on the roads with the number of collisions mounting each hour.

The winter storm that moved into the region Wednesday is still going strong Thursday morning, with a powerful band of lake-effect snow creating whiteout conditions and dangerous travel across Barrie and surrounding communities.

An orange snow squall warning was issued at 3:43 a.m. Thursday for Barrie, Collingwood, Hillsdale, Innisfil, New Tecumseth and Angus. According to Environment Canada, the same system that began Wednesday has now intensified into strong snow squalls that are expected to continue through tonight.

The agency said 30 to 50 centimetres of snow is possible by the time the system tapers off, with even higher amounts in areas hit repeatedly by the most persistent lake-effect bands.

The weather office said visibility will be “significantly reduced in heavy snow and local blowing snow,” with northwesterly winds gusting up to 50 km/h pushing snow across roads and highways.

• Hourly and 7-day forecast on our CTVNewsBarrie.ca weather hub

Forecasters said the heaviest snow is expected from the Wasaga Beach area down through Innisfil, though snowfall totals will vary widely depending on where the bands settle.

Drivers are being warned travel “will likely be extremely hazardous,” with sudden drops to near-zero visibility and quick changes in road conditions. The agency also cautioned road closures are possible and residents should be prepared for disruptions to transportation, utilities and services.

The squalls are expected to weaken overnight, but not before another day of difficult weather. The ongoing storm follows Wednesday’s heavy snowfall, which brought widespread delays, collisions and school bus cancellations across Simcoe County and neighbouring regions.

Officials urge people to avoid non-essential travel and to give themselves extra time if they must be on the roads. Conditions may worsen with little warning as snow bands shift and strengthen throughout the day.