Snow squall warning issued in the Sault, up to 40 cm of snow forecast

CTV National News: Winter weather warnings Due to bitter cold weather conditions, there are winter weather warnings issued across parts of Canada. Kamil Karamali reports.

Environment Canada has issued a snow squall warning for Sault Ste. Marie and St. Joseph Island, in effect today through Thursday.

"Locally heavy snowfall with accumulations of up to 40 cm by Thursday night," Environment Canada said.

"Poor visibility at times in heavy snow and local blowing snow."

Snow is expected to begin Wednesday afternoon and continue into Thursday night.

"Flurries have begun off of Lake Superior. Heavier lake effect snow squalls will develop this afternoon," the warning said.

"These snow squall bands are likely to be transitory, however if they become stationary at times, local snowfall amounts near or possibly exceeding 40 cm are possible. Northwest winds gusting up to 50 km/h will result in local blowing snow and reduced visibility at times."

Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably, with changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common.

Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations.

Continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email.