Midwestern Ontario is being hammered by a snowstorm that has brought heavy snowfall, whipping winds, and frigid temperatures.
The system moved into the region late Wednesday and will continue into Thursday afternoon.
Environment Canada has a yellow-level snowfall warning in place for Perth County, southern Grey County, and northern Wellington County where another 10 to 20 centimetres of snow is expected to fall before tapering off Thursday night. Southern Huron County, Bruce Peninsula, and northern Grey County have a yellow-level snow squall warning in place with an additional 5 to 10 centimetres of snow possible.
Blowing snow is also an issue with northerly winds gusting up to 60 kilometres an hour. There is a windchill that is making the temperature feel like the low-to-mid 20s outside.
The winter wallop caused all schools in Huron-Perth, Grey-Bruce, and North Wellington to be closed for the day.
West Region OPP have been called to multiple incidents of vehicles in the ditch, as well as several collisions.
"Roadways are ice and snow covered and yet we still have drivers out there operating their vehicles like it is a hot summer day," said Sergeant Ed Sanchuk. "Make sure you put your safety as a priority. Focus on the task at hand, leave enough time, room, and distance between you and other vehicles, and ensure that your entire headlighting system is on."
Sanchuk also reminded drivers to be sure to totally clear snow from their vehicles before setting out.
Anyone who does not have to travel Thursday is advised to stay home.
Highway 6 from Wiarton to Tobermory and Grey Road 7 between Meaford to Kimberly are among the roads that have been closed due to poor visibility and deteriorating conditions. The full list of road closures, as well as any cancellations, can be found by clicking here.
Environment Canada anticipates conditions will improve in the evening.
