A Yellow Blowing Snow Advisory has been issued for the region, with Environment Canada warning that hazardous travel conditions are expected to develop beginning Friday afternoon and continue into Friday night and possibly into Saturday morning.
According to Environment Canada, a low pressure system is forecast to push into the area on Friday, bringing widespread snowfall of 4 to 8 centimetres by Friday evening. As the system moves through, strong northwesterly winds are expected to develop behind it, with gusts reaching between 70 and 80 kilometres per hour.
The combination of fresh snow and strong winds is expected to result in widespread blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility, particularly in open and exposed areas such as rural roads, highways, and farm fields. In some locations, visibility could drop to near zero at times, making travel extremely dangerous.
Environment Canada is also warning that very cold wind chills will develop Friday night into Saturday morning, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone caught outdoors or stranded on the roads.
Motorists are being advised to take extra precautions if travel is unavoidable. Emergency officials recommend keeping winter survival supplies in vehicles, including blankets, warm clothing, food, water, jumper cables, and a fully charged cell phone.
Road closures are possible if conditions worsen, and drivers are being urged to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. If someone becomes lost or stranded, they are advised to remain with their vehicle and seek shelter, as walking in near-zero visibility can lead to disorientation and increased risk of injury.
Environment Canada encourages residents to continue monitoring local forecasts and weather alerts as conditions may change quickly. Anyone experiencing severe weather is asked to report it by emailing ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or by posting on social media using the hashtag #ONStorm.