Winter is making a strong return to southwestern Ontario with warnings of heavy snowfall and snowstorms.

The Canadian Environmental Agency has issued warnings of heavy snowfall and snowstorms in the areas of Waterloo, Stratford, Wellington County, and Brant County, with significant impacts expected on travel and roadways.

Weather Details and Warnings

• Waterloo and Brant Area:

• Timing: From 2 PM to 6 PM on Wednesday.

• Expected Snow Accumulation: 2 to 4 centimeters.

• Impacts: Low visibility due to snow accumulation.

• Stratford and Wellington Area:

• Timing: Starting Wednesday evening until Thursday.

• Expected Snow Accumulation:

• Stratford: 10 to 20 centimeters.

• Wellington: 15 to 30 centimeters.

• Weather Causes: Snowstorms caused by the influence of Lake Huron with northwesterly winds reaching speeds of 60 km/h, leading to zero visibility due to blowing snow.

Warnings for Drivers

• Non-essential travel is advised to be postponed until weather conditions improve.

• Equip vehicles with emergency supplies and exercise patience while driving.

• It is crucial to stay behind snowplows and not to pass them.

Parking Restrictions

• City of Waterloo:

• A parking ban on streets will commence at 11:59 PM on Thursday, January 2, 2025, for at least 24 hours.

• Violators may face an $80 fine, in addition to vehicle towing.

• City of Cambridge:

• Street parking will be prohibited starting at 6 AM on Thursday for the same duration.

• City of Kitchener:

• Parking will be banned starting at 12 PM on Thursday, with the same penalties applying.

These measures aim to ensure the effectiveness of street cleaning operations during these severe weather conditions.