Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the central area of the region including:

• Schreiber,
• Longlac,
• Thunder Bay,
• Shabaqua and
• Atikokan .

A large low pressure system originating from Texas is tracking towards Lake Superior this morning. Varying amounts of snow, mostly in the 5 to 10 cm range, have already fallen in most areas across over northwestern and North Central Ontario.
Additional amounts of 5 to 10 cm are expected today bringing total amounts of 15 cm or more. In addition, wind gusts to 50 km/h will result in blowing snow.

Traveling conditions will be rather hazardous with untreated surfaces snow covered and slippery. Visibilities will be reduced significantly in local blowing snow.

The snow is forecast to begin to gradually taper off later today as the low pressure system pulls away into Quebec.
Currently, as of 11:00 am (EST) the following roadways have been closed due to extreme icy conditions:

• Highway 11/17 from Thunder Bay to Ignace
• Highway 102

Motorists should consider refraining from driving until the storm passes.  Travellers should consult with the MTO Travellers Road Information Portal by dialling 511 prior to setting out.  For web based access, the public can find information on road closures and travellers advisories at:

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/trip/road_closures.shtml

Be safe, stay alert and slow down.