Motorcycle riders from across the region are expected to make their way to Port Dover today for the community’s well-known Friday the 13th gathering.
The event has become a long-standing tradition that draws riders from across Ontario several times a year whenever the calendar lands on the date.
However, police say today’s weather conditions could make travel more challenging for riders.
That was Sgt. Ed Sanchuk with the Ontario Provincial Police West Region.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the region, warning that strong winds are expected to develop later today. Winds could gust between 70 and 90 kilometres per hour this afternoon and into the evening.
Earlier in the day, conditions are expected to deteriorate as snow changes to rain showers or flurries, with snowfall amounts of two to four centimetres possible. Temperatures are forecast to reach around three degrees, but wind chill values will make it feel significantly colder.
Officials say strong winds combined with precipitation and cold temperatures can create difficult riding conditions, particularly on open highways and near the Lake Erie shoreline.
Even with the less than ideal weather, Sanchuk says motorists should be aware that motorcycles will likely be sharing highways and local roads throughout the day as riders travel to and from the lakeside community.
Police are reminding everyone travelling to the event to allow extra time, watch for motorcycles, and adjust their driving to match road and weather conditions.