Heavy snow, freezing rain to hit southern Ontario starting Thursday

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning for several areas of southern Ontario of a major winter storm this weekend.

The special weather statement is in effect for most areas across southern Ontario including Hamilton, Halton-Peel, Waterloo-Wellington Region, as well as Toronto.

It is expected to rain most of the day on Thursday, right before a big temperature drop on Friday, which could lead to a potential flash freeze for areas that receive rainfall.

Damaging strong winds and blizzard conditions are also possible late Friday into the weekend for areas downwind of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.

Odds of widespread flash freeze on Friday increase. Rain and snowmelt before a plunge in temperatures below freezing makes for icy walking and driving conditions.

It may be time to reconsider your travelling plans before the holidays. 🥶 #flashfreeze #onstorm #onwx pic.twitter.com/Ezya2NZRlf

— ECCC Weather Ontario (@ECCCWeatherON) December 20, 2022

Environment Canada says they do not know how much snow will impact the area – but they are confident this will be a “high impact winter storm.”

Public Safety Canada says extensive utility outages are possible.

They also encourage everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.

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