Residents of Sault Ste. Marie should prepare for a significant drop in temperature this weekend, as a cold snap is set to move into the region following several days of unseasonably warm weather. According to Environment Canada, the city will experience mild conditions with highs of 11°C on Thursday and 13°C on Friday before a sharp cooling trend begins.
The colder air is expected to arrive Saturday night, with a 60 percent chance of flurries and an overnight low of -4°C. The trend will continue into Sunday, which will see continued flurries and a high of only 1°C, dropping to an overnight low of -7°C. These temperatures are well below the seasonal mid-April averages for the area, which typically see highs of 9°C and lows of -2°C.
The Weather Network notes that wind chill will make it feel much colder, with temperatures expected to feel like -8°C on Saturday evening and -10°C by Sunday morning.
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation advises motorists to be prepared for the return of wintry road conditions. Drivers are encouraged to keep their fuel tanks at least half full to help maintain their vehicle and to carry a winter survival kit, which should include a charged phone, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a blanket, jumper cables, a shovel, and traction mats.
The provincial government also notes that winter tires are recommended through April 30. Using winter tires can improve traction and control in icy or snowy conditions and may shorten braking distances by as much as 25 percent.
