Extended power outages likely, warns Environment Canada of incoming winter storm
Up to 15 cm of snow expected in Waterloo region and Guelph, Mount Forest could see up to 50 cm
Environment Canada has now issued a winter storm warning for Waterloo region and Guelph, while Wellington County is under a blizzard warning.
A major winter storm is expected to land in Ontario Friday into Saturday.
The weather agency is calling for strong winds of up to 100 km/h. In Waterloo region and Guelph, snowfall amounts range from 5 to 15 centimeters. Areas of Arthur and Mount Forest could see 25 to 50 centimeters.
Environment Canada says very cold wind chills are expected to develop on Friday and continue into the weekend and extended power outages are likely.
Precipitation will start as rain later in the day on Thursday before the temperature drops and the winds and snow take over Friday. Flash freezing is also possible Friday morning.
"Temperatures are expected to plummet on Friday morning leading to a potential flash freeze. Rapidly falling temperatures will be accompanied by damaging winds along with snow, heavy at times," Environment Canada warns.
Extensive blowing snow could develop Friday morning as well.
The weather agency suggests people postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve. Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit.