Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast across central and southern Ontario and northern and southern Quebec through at least early Dec. 27

Freezing rain and blizzards are forecast across parts of central and southern Ontario and northern and southern Quebec through at least early Dec. 27. Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red freezing rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): central Ontario and southwestern Quebec

• Red blizzard warnings: far northern Quebec

• Red smog warnings: far southeastern Quebec

• Grey special weather statements for fog: the rest of southern Ontario

• Grey special weather statements for freezing rain: the rest of far southern Quebec

Officials may update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

The winter weather may cause ground and air transport disruptions across parts of the country over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also possible on secondary and rural roadways as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in affected regions.

Power outages are possible if strong winds, ice, and heavy snow damage infrastructure.