Environment Canada has issued a Yellow Snow Squall Warning for Norfolk County as winter weather continues to impact the region.
Forecasters say snow squalls are expected to persist into the evening hours, bringing local snowfall totals of 10 to 20 centimetres.
Visibility may be significantly reduced at times due to heavy snow and blowing snow, particularly in open and exposed areas. Westerly winds are expected to strengthen through the day, with gusts reaching between 70 and 90 kilometres per hour.
Environment Canada says strong winds developing later this morning will likely create areas of near-zero visibility, making travel hazardous.
Rapidly changing road conditions are expected, and drivers are being urged to allow extra time and adjust plans if possible.
Officials also warn that local utility outages are possible as the storm continues.
Along with the snow, the Medical Officer of Health for Grand Erie Public Health has issued a Cold Notification for the Grand Erie Public Health region.
The notification applies to communities across Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk and is issued when temperatures are expected to fall below minus 15 degrees Celsius, or when wind chill values reach minus 20 degrees or colder.
Public health officials say prolonged exposure to extreme cold can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Cold Notifications are intended to alert service providers, community partners, and residents so protective measures can be put in place.
This includes ensuring access to warm shelter, checking on vulnerable individuals, and taking precautions to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
The Cold Notification will remain in effect until conditions improve and a formal cancellation notice is issued by Grand Erie Public Health.