Weekend snowstorm, 'really cold' temperatures likely ahead for Hamilton
15-25 cm of snow could come on Saturday, says Environment Canada
Pay attention to the forecast for the next few days because Hamilton could be in for a one-two weather punch.
A weekend snowstorm is on the way — followed by a very cold Sunday and Monday.
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch for Hamilton. Look out for adverse weather conditions, the agency said, and take necessary safety precautions.
There could be 15 to 25 cm of snow in Hamilton starting Saturday afternoon, said Mitch Meredith, senior weather meteorologist with Environment Canada — and it's going to get windy.
The "real snowstorm" is expected to continue into Saturday night, he said, tapering off on Sunday.
Lesser snowfalls amounts in the five to 10 cm range are expected for Oakville, Waterdown and areas of the city north of Dundas Street.
Environment Canada said there's still a lot of uncertainty about the winter storm because a more northerly track will mean more snowfall for the area, while a southerly track will mean less.
Regardless of how much snow comes down, resident are told to expect strong winds of 40 km/h gusting to 60 km/h.
Blowing snow will cause reduced visibility and impact transportation, according to the weather agency, along with "bitterly cold" wind chill values near –20.
'One of the colder days of this winter'
After the snowfall, Hamilton is going to see "some really cold temperatures," said meteorologist Desjanelle Matthews.
Sunday night into Monday morning, wind-chill temperatures may be between -25 and -30 C, she added.
But it will be cold all day Sunday, with a temperatures high of -11.
"It will still be a shock Sunday morning," said Meredith.
"Sunday will definitely be one of the colder days of this winter."
Meredith also says to pay attention to the forecast in the coming days, as Environment Canada will be putting out more information. He expects a lot of variability with this storm system, depending on where you are in the province.
There could also be some light snow Friday, Matthews said, although this is not associated with the main storm system.