Rain today, whiteout tomorrow: Snow squalls expected to slam the region

CTV’s Rob Cooper reports on how the region is bracing for what’s expected to be the first real taste of winter this season.

It’s the calm before the storm across Simcoe County and Muskoka, with mild, wet weather starting the morning on Wednesday but forecasters say residents won’t be holding onto their umbrellas for long. By Thursday, it’ll be all about snow squalls, strong winds and the kind of conditions that can flip a commute on its head.

Environment Canada issued a snow squall watch early Wednesday for areas including Barrie, Collingwood and Hillsdale. While Wednesday’s rain is expected to move out later in the day, it’s setting the stage for what’s anticipated to be a dramatic shift as temperatures drop and lake-effect bands fire up off Georgian Bay.

Starting Thursday morning, snow squalls are expected to develop and could linger straight through Saturday. The national weather agency says the most intense bursts of snow will shift around during the day Thursday before locking into place Thursday night. That’s when the real trouble could begin.

Environment Canada warns 15 to 30 centimetres of snow is possible in the hardest-hit areas, with the potential for even higher localized amounts. Visibility may drop to near zero at times in both heavy snow and blowing snow, thanks to strong gusty winds.

A special weather statement remains in effect for several parts of southern Ontario because of those winds, which could make already-poor visibility even worse.

“Travel may be hazardous,” the agency warns. “Prepare for the possibility of quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.”