Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of southern Ontario and southwestern Quebec through at least Dec. 13

Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of southern Ontario and southwestern Quebec through at least Dec. 13. A storm system and associated cold front moving over the region from the Prairies will generate lake-effect snow, snow squalls, and strong winds across the region Dec. 12-13. Snowfall totals of up to 30 cm (12 inches) are possible across parts of the affected area and strong winds may cause blizzard conditions. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.

As of early Dec. 12, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Red snow squall warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Agawa-Lake Superior forecast district in Ontario.

• Yellow snow squall warnings: Barrie-Orillia-Midland, Burk's Falls-Bayfield Inlet, Grey-Bruce, Haliburton, Parry Sound-Muskoka, and Peterborough-Kawartha Lakes forecast districts in Ontario.

• Grey weather advisories: Elliot Lake-Ranger Lake and Manitoulin-Blind River-Killarney forecast districts in Ontario and Abitibi, La Verendrye Wildlife Reserve, Matagami, Mont-Laurier, Parent-Gouin Reservoir, Pontiac, and Temiscamingue forecast districts in Quebec.

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

Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area. Lesser snowfall totals are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with snow. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages may occur throughout the affected area.

The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are likely, especially on secondary and rural roads, as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will likely close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds will threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected areas. Mountain passes and tunnels will probably be closed as a precaution during periods of intense snowfall. The disruptive weather will likely cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Heavy, wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage.