The snow begins in southern Ontario this week

Get ready residents of Mississauga, Brampton, Halton, and Hamilton, as a substantial amount of rain and a blast of snow—15 cm or more—are in the forecast.

Last week, the region witnessed mild weather with a mix of conditions—alternating between cloudy and sunny days, occasional flurries, and fluctuating temperatures. However, meteorologists suggest that the weather is poised to intensify.

As of today (Dec. 17) it will be mainly rainy and cloudy—a good reason to stay indoors. Daytime temperature will reach 6 C, with rain subsiding in the late evening. Temperatures will drop to a low of 3 C, while wind speeds are expected to pick up to 30 km/h, gradually calming by the following morning.

As per The Weather Network, Monday brings the potential for lake-effect snow, which will be especially challenging for commuters.

A 60 per cent chance of showers are also predicted for Monday and could become heavier and more persistent with a potential risk of 40 mm of rain.

Daytime temperatures will remain at a steady 5 C. By the evening, a cold air lobe will push south, bringing temperatures below freezing with a windchill of -11 C —making it the chilliest day compared to rest of  the week. The gusty winds will carry through the night and into the next day.

On Tuesday, an upper trough passing across southern Ontario could lead to a 30 per cent chance of light snowfall in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and surrounding regions.

Although the absence of frigid Arctic air may limit snow squall intensity, snowbelt regions could see up to 20 cm of snowfall from Lake Huron and Georgian Bay bands, according to The Weather Network.

If you’re planning to hit the road, it’s advisable to be well-prepared by dressing warmly and allowing yourself extra travel time. Additionally, Tuesday’s temperatures are not expected to rise above -1 C, with a further drop to -6 C anticipated by the evening.

Environment Canada calls for a mix of sun and clouds on Wednesday. Residents can expect temperatures to warm up to 4 C, before the evening ushers in overcast conditions with temperatures dropping to a frigid -4 C.

Majority of Thursday will bring clear skies with plenty of sunshine. Temperatures are set to climb to a consistent 4 C where it will remain for the greater part of the day, before cooling down to -3 C by the evening.

Meteorologists predict predominantly cloudy conditions on both Friday and Saturday, with temperatures reaching a peak of 3 C. Storm clouds will linger throughout the day and into the evening, while temperatures could drop as low as -3 C.