Snowfall and extreme wind chills expected to mark the first day of winter

A man uses a snow blower in Barrie, Ont. (Mike Walker/ CTV Barrie)

Mother Nature is ringing in the first day of winter with a snowy blast, as Environment Canada issued a weather advisory for parts of the region on Saturday.

Simcoe County is expected to see snowfall accumulations of five to 10 centimetres, accompanied by reduced visibility and blowing snow. The snow is forecasted to persist throughout the afternoon, with heavier flurries anticipated into the evening, according to the special weather agency.

In addition to the snow, wind chills are expected to plummet to near minus 24 overnight, creating extremely cold conditions.

“Motorists are advised to exercise caution, as hazardous winter driving conditions are likely, with sudden reductions in visibility and transportation delays possible,” shared Environment Canada in their Saturday forecast.

Sunday offers some relief with sunny skies, but the bone-chilling cold isn’t going anywhere. Wind chills are forecasted to remain harsh, reaching as low as minus 25, the weather agency continued.

"Slow down driving in slippery conditions. Watch for taillights ahead and maintain a safe following distance," Environment Canada concluded in their weather advisory.

Quite a chilling way to mark the first day of winter.