Wintry mix threatens travel across parts of Ontario

A low-pressure system is expected to bring a wintry mix of snow and freezing rain to large parts of Ontario from Thursday night through Saturday morning, with potentially icy travel conditions in several regions.

Freezing rain is forecast to begin Friday afternoon across portions of southwestern Ontario and the Greater Golden Horseshoe, spreading eastward and continuing into Saturday morning in some areas. Ice accretion of five to 10 millimetres is possible where freezing rain is most persistent.

Icy roads and walkways are expected, along with the risk of broken tree branches and isolated power outages due to ice buildup.

Snow is also expected to develop Thursday night for areas north and east of Lake Superior, spreading into parts of central and southern Ontario by Friday morning and continuing into Saturday. Snowfall totals of five to 15 centimetres are possible, which could lead to difficult travel conditions and slippery surfaces.

In addition, light freezing rain may affect parts of southwestern Ontario late Friday morning into the evening. Ice amounts in these areas are expected to remain minimal, but could still create localized hazards.