Environment Canada has issued a weather and travel advisory for several areas in Southern Ontario including Toronto, Vaughan, Pickering, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington and Hamilton.
Snow is forecast to begin late this afternoon or early this evening. “The snow will quickly become heavy at times, before transitioning to periods of rain tonight or early Saturday morning as temperatures rise above freezing,” the advisory from the national weather service said. “Strong southeasterly winds gusting up to 70 km/h will combine with this heavy snow to cause significantly reduced visibility at times.”
Locally heavy snowfall with total accumulations of 5 to 10 cm is expected with peak snowfall rates of 2 to 5 cm per hour.
“Avoid travel if possible,” Environment Canada said. “Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas.”
Meanwhile a winter storm warning is in effect for areas in the north including Newmarket, Georgina and Northern York Region where heavy snowfall with total accumulations of 10 to 25 cm is predicted.
A multi-day lake effect snow event is expected for locations east of the Great Lakes bringing additional snowfall accumulations to some communities, Environment Canada said.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow.
People living in these areas are urged to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
