Major winter storm affects services, highways across northeastern Ont.

Rick Wyman has all the regional weather details you need to know.

A winter storm walloping communities across northeastern Ontario on Monday has led to the closures across the region, and the closure of several roads.

Schools are largely already closed because of the March Break.

Freezing rain and more snow are expected in areas in and around Greater Sudbury, while areas around Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins can expect more snow – between 30-50 cm. North Bay is expected to receive heavy rain and freezing rain.

Heavy winds gusting up to 70-80 km/h is in the forecast for all areas.

“Travel will likely be extremely hazardous and some routes will likely be impassable,” Environment Canada said in its orange winter storm warning.

“Road closures are possible. Prolonged, widespread utility outages are likely. Roofs are at an increased risk of collapse under the weight of snow. All travel and outdoor activities should be avoided. Prepare for prolonged, widespread disruptions to transportation, services and utilities.”

Extreme conditions

Communities have put winter storm protocols into effect.

“Due to extreme conditions, major roadways, including MR 80, MR 35, MR 55, as well as all side streets, may not be maintained at this time except for emergency service needs.” Sudbury police said in a news release.

“We are asking all residents to remain at home and stay off the roadways until further notice. Municipal crews continue to work diligently to reduce the impact of this weather event on our community.”

Several non-urgent appointments have been cancelled at Health Sciences North in Sudbury.

“All outpatient appointments and clinics, as well as elective and non-urgent surgeries planned for March 16 are cancelled and being rescheduled,” HSN said in a statement.

Appointments cancelled

“This includes chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Dialysis services and treatment are still happening.”

The ER remains open, but longer wait times are expected.

Municipal facilities and services are not running in the Sault, where garbage collection is cancelled for the day and buses are not running.

“Snow clearing is ongoing and residents are strongly encouraged to avoid travel unless essential,” the city said in an update Monday morning.

“Crews are working around the clock, prioritizing main roads followed by residential streets. Please avoid parking on roadways and keep sidewalks clear to support operations.”

Group Health Centre offices are closed Monday.

Conditions are less severe in the Timmins area, where buses are running and garbage collection is proceeding as usual. North Bay is under a less severe yellow weather warning, with freezing rain and heavy rain alerts in effect.

Roads closed Monday morning include Highway 69 from Sudbury to Parry Sound, Highway 144 from Chelmsford to Timmins, Highway 17 from Blind River to the Sault, and Highway 11 from North Bay to Longlac.

A real-time list of road conditions can be found at Ontario 511.