Snow Squalls & Blizzard Conditions Expected Across Quinte Region and Prince Edward County Monday
- Small Town Productions
- 20 minutes ago
- 3 min read
| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions |
Issued at: 4:53 PM EST, Sunday, January 18, 2026
Forecast confidence: High
Please find both locations under the general summary below
Environment Canada is warning residents across parts of Eastern Ontario to prepare for rapidly deteriorating winter conditions as lake-effect snow squalls move in overnight and intensify into Monday. Conditions will vary significantly by region, with some areas facing moderate impacts, while others are expected to experience dangerous blizzard conditions.
Drivers and residents are urged to plan ahead, monitor weather alerts, and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility, snowfall rates, and road conditions—especially during peak travel times.
📍 Belleville – Quinte West – Eastern Northumberland County
Impact Level: Moderate | Snow Squalls Expected
Residents in Belleville, Quinte West, and Eastern Northumberland County should prepare for lake-effect snow squalls beginning overnight or early Monday morning. These squalls are expected to strengthen through the day, with the worst conditions forecast for Monday afternoon and evening.
What to expect
Near-zero visibility at times in heavy snow and blowing snow
Local snowfall totals of 10 to 20 cm
Westerly wind gusts up to 60 km/h, increasing blowing snow, and whiteout risks
Travel concerns
There may be significant impacts to Monday rush hour traffic, with Highway 401 travel expected to be hazardous at times. Motorists are advised to prepare for quickly changing road conditions as squalls move through the region.
Timing
Begins: overnight / early Monday morning
Peak impacts: Monday afternoon and evening
Improving: Monday evening
📍 Picton – Sandbanks Park
Impact Level: High | Snow Squalls Tonight | Blizzard Expected Monday
Residents of Prince Edward County, including Picton and Sandbanks, are expected to see the most severe conditions, with snow squalls developing this evening turning into an intense blizzard Monday afternoon into the evening.
What to expect
Blizzard conditions with near zero visibility
Westerly wind gusts up to 90 km/h
Snowfall totals of 20 to 40 cm, with locally higher amounts possible
Wind chills near -20°C
Heavy snowfall and strong winds expected throughout Monday
Travel concerns
Travel may become dangerous and likely impossible, particularly during the peak blizzard period Monday afternoon and evening. Road closures are possible, and residents are strongly urged to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Timing
Snow squalls begin: Sunday evening
Blizzard conditions: Monday afternoon through Monday evening
Snow squalls may continue: into Tuesday
Public Safety Reminder
Residents across all affected regions should be prepared for:
sudden whiteouts
disruptions to transportation
possible impacts to services and utilities
Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must go out, have an emergency plan and supplies in your vehicle. If stranded, remain with your vehicle until conditions improve.
📣 Share This Advisory
Please share this update with friends, family, and anyone commuting on Monday, especially those travelling along Highway 401 or in open / exposed areas.
A quick share could help someone stay safe and avoid dangerous road conditions.
Together, we can make our community safer and help keep each other informed as dangerous weather moves into our region
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