Environment Canada warns of strong winds, heavy rain this weekend

A special weather statement has been issued for Southern Ontario with strong winds and heavy rain expected in the region on Friday.

Environment Canada says winds gusting up to 90 kilometers per hour will sweep across the area on Friday night into Saturday night. Winds in Niagara Region could reach up to 110 kilometers per hour.

“A strong cold front will make its way through southern Ontario bringing rain and strong winds. Strong and gusty southwesterly winds are possible Saturday afternoon, while strong and gusty westerly winds are expected to set in by Saturday evening,” states the public alert on Environment Canada’s website.

Heavy rainfall is also expected with 20 to 45 millimeters of accumulated rain.

The weather agency says local power outages are possible and warns loose objects may be tossed around and tree branches could break.

Flash flooding due to heavy downpours and water pooling on roads is also possible. There is a chance of localized flooding in low-lying areas and washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts.

Temperatures are expected to rapidly fall Saturday night allowing for light snow to develop in the wake of the cold front.

The weather agency says it may issue wind warnings as the weather event approaches the area.