Drivers in the London region can expect a messy, slow afternoon and evening commute Thursday as snow squalls move into the area.
Environment Canada has upgraded a snow squall watch to a warning for London and Middlesex County. Similar warnings have also been issued for Sarnia-Lambton and Huron-Perth.
Between 15 to 25 centimetres of snow is expected to fall locally under these squalls, according to the national weather agency.
Wind gusts up to 60 kilometres per hour will also lead to areas of blowing snow. The strong winds coupled with the squalls will lead to reduced visibility and whiteout conditions at times, which will make driving hazardous. Environment Canada suggests postponing all non-essential travel until conditions improve.
The squalls are expected to weaken by Friday morning. However, the reprieve from the snow will be short-lived. Another system packing an undetermined amount of the white stuff will move into the region Friday night and stick around through Sunday.