Blizzard warning, snow squalls expected in parts of southwestern Ontario

Several regions north of London are under a blizzard warning as another round of snow and gusting winds sweep through southwestern Ontario Monday afternoon.

Environment Canada is issuing an orange weather warning for several areas east of Lake Huron, including Huron and Perth counties, Stratford, Mitchell, Goderich, Blue Water, and up towards the Bruce Peninsula.

Orange alerts are used to mark severe weather conditions likely to cause significant damage or disruption.

"This is being driven by very strong and gusting winds from the west, causing not only intense bursts of falling snow, but also blowing snow and some pretty cold temperatures," said Environment Canada meteorologist Geoff Coulson.

Monday's weather is expected to include snow squalls and winds between 60 and 80 km/h.

Blowing snow will produce blizzard conditions, causing near-zero visibility, Coulson said.

"In a normal snow squall warning we see in areas like London or Stratford, there are bands of snow coming off Lake Huron. Visibility can tend to be briefly poor as you drive through the heart of some of these bands," Coulson explained. "In this particular case, the blizzard warning indicates the very poor visibilities are much more widespread."

While the wind and blowing snow are expected to end Monday night, snow squalls and up to 25 cm of snow will continue into Tuesday. With wind chill, temperatures are expected to drop to -20 to -25 C.

Environment Canada is advising people to avoid travel, adding that it will likely be impossible to navigate the roads. The organization is recommending that those planning to travel have an emergency plan.

The west-bound side of the 401 was closed during the morning commute between Woodstock and Ingersoll due to a collision.

Ontario Provincial Police made a post on X Monday morning, warning drivers to take it slow as roads and highways are already slick, slippery and icy.