Environment Canada issued an updated weather bulletin on Dec. 25 at 6:59 p.m. EST, cutting expected snow accumulations for Casselman and the United Counties of Prescott and Russell to 2–4 cm. Snow is now forecast to begin late afternoon on Christmas Day and end early the next morning, though very cold wind chills and gusts up to 40 km/h remain a concern.
The earlier forecast had warned of heavier snow and ice totals, but a shift in the low-pressure system’s track weakened the moisture profile and led meteorologists to lower expected amounts. According to Environment Canada’s bulletin, “Snow is expected to begin late this afternoon… wind becoming northwest 40 km/h… snowfall amount 2 to 4 cm,” and northwest winds will pick up by evening, bringing blustery conditions even as snowfall tapers off.
With lower totals, the Municipality of Casselman’s public works operations may be able to rely on routine equipment rather than larger plows and reduce the need to call in overtime staff. The municipality’s winter maintenance policy places small accumulations such as 2–4 cm within standard thresholds, shifting the operational focus from heavy snow removal to treating icy sidewalks and roads.
Drivers on Highway 417 and county roads should still watch for black ice and sudden gusts. Motorists are encouraged to check Ontario 511 for road conditions before travelling and to dress warmly for temperatures that will feel well below freezing in the wind.
