Strong wind gusts expected in much of southern Ontario on Monday: Environment Canada

In this file photo, a person walks during strong winds and snow squalls in Ottawa, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby

Environment Canada is warning of strong winds that are expected to impact much of southern Ontario on Monday.

According to the national weather agency, southwesterly winds are expected to develop tomorrow afternoon and continue into Monday night. These wind gusts could range from 70 to 90 km/hr.

“High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Power outages are also possible,” said Environment Canada.

A special weather statement was issued on Sunday evening for Barrie - Collingwood – Hillsdale, Brantford - County of Brant, Burlington – Oakville, Caledon, Hamilton, Toronto, Guelph - Erin - Southern Wellington County, Halton Hills – Milton, Innisfil - New Tecumseth – Angus, Kitchener - Cambridge - Region of Waterloo, Mississauga – Brampton, Newmarket - Georgina - Northern York Region, Orangeville - Grand Valley - Southern Dufferin County, Peterborough City - Lakefield - Southern Peterborough County, Pickering - Oshawa - Southern Durham Region, Uxbridge - Beaverton - Northern Durham Region, London - Parkhill - Eastern Middlesex County, and Vaughan - Richmond Hill – Markham.

Parts of province under wind warning

Further, Cobourg - Colborne - Western Northumberland County, Dunnville – Caledonia – Haldimand, Niagara Falls - Welland - Southern Niagara Region, Simcoe - Delhi – Norfolk, and St. Catharines - Grimsby - Northern Niagara Region, are under a wind warning with strong southwesterly winds forecasted to develop Monday afternoon.

These wind gusts, which are expected to conclude on tomorrow evening, could reach 100 km/h.

“Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. High winds may result in power outages and fallen tree branches,” Environment Canada said.

“Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds.”

Winter travel advisory in effect for Muskoka

A winter weather travel advisory has also been issued for Bracebridge – Gravenhurt, which could see “significantly reduced visibility” due to snowfall accumulations of 10 to 20 cm by Monday evening and strong wind gusts up to 70 km/h.

Travel is expected to be impacted in that area, especially along Highway 11, starting on Sunday night until Monday afternoon.

“Lake effect flurries will affect the area tonight and Monday. However, strengthening winds on Monday will result in reduced visibility in snow and blowing snow,” Environment Canada said.

“In addition, a sharp cold front will move through Monday evening which could produce near zero visibility in bursts of heavy snow and blowing snow along with a sharp temperature drop.”

Drivers are being advised to expect hazardous winter driving conditions and are being urged to adjust their travel plans and driving with changing road conditions.

“If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop,” the agency said.