First snow advisory of the season in effect for parts of Ontario

Heavy snow is expected in parts of Ontario prompting the first snow advisory of the season.

The advisory impacts areas in the northwest area of the province.

There is a snow squall warning in effect for the Agawa, Lake Superior Park, Searchmont, Montreal River Harbour and Batchawana Bay areas of the province on Wednesday, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

A snow squall watch is in effect for the Sault Ste. Marie and St. Joseph Island area.

Watches are issued when there is the potential for severe weather. Warnings are issued when that severe weather is actually occurring or is imminent.

Snowfall accumulations of 10 to 15 centimetres are expected but the snow is expected to taper off through the afternoon and evening, Environment Canada said.

“Snow squalls cause weather conditions to vary considerably; changes from clear skies to heavy snow within just a few kilometres are common,” the advisory stated. “Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow.”

Drivers should take precautions as rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations.

“Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” the advisory stated. “If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Environment Canada said heavy, lake-effect snow off of Georgian Bay could impact Huntsville, Parry Sound, Bracebridge, Gravenhurst and Baysville.

Environment Canada warned of a “significant weather outlook” for Wednesday, Friday and Saturday for areas southeast of Lake Superior, Georgian Bay and Lake Huron.

Total accumulations could exceed 50 cm east of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron.

There is also a chance of snow in the GTA this week but the Weather Network forecast is for less than one centimetre on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Below is the forecast for the GTA.

Lead photo: Lisa Fotios