Southern Ontario digs out from major winter storm

Residents of southern Ontario are digging themselves out this morning as the storm currently throwing blizzard conditions against the U.S. Northeast intensifies an Alberta Clipper passing over the Great Lakes.

[ Related: Storm hitting southern Ontario, U.S. causes closures, travel woes ]

It took a little longer than expected for southwestern Ontario and the GTA to feel the full effect of the snowstorm, but the lost time is definitely being made up for now.

Snowfall amounts for yesterday were as predicted, with 2-5 cm of snow reported from Windsor to Toronto, and higher amounts further to the north, from Goderich, across the northern edge of the GTA and into Oshawa.

Overnight, when the heavy snowfall was expected to arrive, was fairly quiet, with only another 2 cm of snow reported in most areas. It was this morning that the storm got into full swing, though, with Toronto Pearson Airport reporting another 15 cm of snowfall by noon, and the snow isn't stopping yet.

[ Related: 10 tips for winter driving survival ]

The heavy snowfall isn't the only problem out there, either. Blowing and drifting snow from the 25-30 km/h winds are causing reduced visibility, adding to the already hazardous driving conditions. Toronto's Pearson International Airport has also reported many flight delays and cancellations due to the weather.

Southern Ontario could easily see another 5 to 10 cm of snowfall from this system by the end of the day. However, even as the snow moves on this evening, the gusty winds behind the Clipper will continue to kick up what's on the ground, so blowing and drifting snow will still be a concern overnight and into Saturday morning.

[ More from Geekquinox: Southern Ontario braces for snowstorm ]

You can keep an eye on Environment Canada weather warnings on their website.

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