A freezing rain warning is in effect for Halton.
Environment Canada issued the winter weather advisory Tuesday night, warning that the “significant freezing rain” event is expected Wednesday (Feb. 22).
The national weather agency said that a prolonged period of freezing rain from Wednesday afternoon to early Thursday morning may lead to significant ice build-up in some areas.
The potential “hazards” include ice accretion of five to 10 millimetres, with possible snow and ice pellets up to five to 10 cm — and northeasterly winds gusting to near 50 km/h.
“Light snow and ice pellets will become heavy at times late Wednesday afternoon into early Wednesday evening. Snow and ice pellets will mix with or change over to freezing rain Wednesday evening. Freezing rain will continue into the overnight on Wednesday before tapering off early Thursday morning to a risk of patchy freezing drizzle. Gusty northeasterly winds will diminish early Thursday morning,” the statement reads.
According to the agency, another wintry mix of precipitation is possible Thursday afternoon into Thursday evening.
Environment Canada states that surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow.
“Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop. Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight,” the agency says.