Canada: Adverse winter weather conditions forecast over parts of eastern and central regions through Feb. 29 /update 1

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of eastern and central Canada through Feb. 29. As of late Feb. 27, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red extreme cold warnings: Northwestern and far western Ontario.

• Red winter storm warnings: Eastern Ontario and western Quebec

• Red blizzard warnings: Far northern Quebec.

• Red flash freeze warnings: Central Ontario and southern and central Quebec

• Red rainfall warnings: Southern and central New Brunswick, southern Nova Scotia, and far eastern Quebec.

• Red wind warnings: Far southern New Brunswick, southern Nova Scotia, and far eastern Quebec.

• Red wreckhouse wind warnings: Far southern Newfoundland Island.

• Yellow severe thunderstorm watches: Far southern Ontario.

• Grey special weather statements: The rest of the affected area.

Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected area due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. The severe weather is forecast to start to ease from the west late Feb. 28.

The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. The disruptive weather will likely cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region due to ground stops and deicing operations. Heavy, wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage.