Fresh blanket of snow, tricky road conditions expected for London and farther north

A snow squall warning is in effect for London and the surrounding region, with counties to the north of the city expected to receive the brunt of the storm.

Environment Canada's warning says the city proper, as well as eastern Middlesex County and Parkhill, could see a burst of heavy snowfall and blowing snow beginning this afternoon, with accumulations of 20 to 35 centimetres by Saturday evening. In southern Huron and Perth counties, and Goderich and Stratford, the forecast is similar.

The weather authority's alert issued Friday said over the course of the afternoon, more stationary bands of snow squalls are expected to set up, bringing even higher snowfall tonight, leading into Saturday.

To the north, in Bruce and northern Huron counties, including Wingham, Kincardine and Saugeen Shores, snowfall amounts exceeding 60 centimetres are possible, Environment Canada warned. Those areas are also expected to see winds gusts up to 60 km/h.

Snow squalls are known for causing changing weather conditions, including transitions from clear skies to heavy snow within several kilometres. Road closures are possible in areas that are significantly effected, especially in rural areas.

Environment Canada also warned drivers to be wary, as changing weather conditions and blowing snow often come with a combination of poor visibility and slippery roads.