Niagara Region under snow squall warning, Hamilton braces for plunging temperatures

A snow squall warning is in effect for some parts of the Niagara Region. Residents in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls, Ont., and the surrounding area can expect heavy snowfall up to 15 centimetres and whiteout conditions Sunday, says Environment Canada. "Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow," the weather agency said in a statement.

"Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions." The snow is due to a lake effect off Lake Erie that's shifted north to the Niagara Region. It's expected to shift south later in the morning, but will still impact the Long Point area into Monday, says Environment Canada.

Parts of #Niagara will likely be impacted by a significant winter storm this weekend. If you encounter poor conditions, slow down, leave extra space, & ensure your lights are on. Also, please clear the snow off your car to maximize visibility & minimize hazards. #SeeSnowGoSlow pic.twitter.com/M2qxIouGMI — @NiagRegPolice During the day Sunday, temperatures will stay steady at around 5 C, but with a wind chill of 16 C, dropping to 20 C overnight.

Half of the country has been under weather warnings this weekend including extreme cold in B.C., Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and heavy snowfall in parts of Ontario and Quebec. Canadians coping with multiple winter weather extremes this weekend Cold weather alert issued in Hamilton The City of Hamilton is warning residents of expected cold weather Sunday night and has issued an alert.

Temperatures will drop to 17 C, according to Environment Canada. The wind chill will be 19 C in the evening and 27 C overnight. Monday morning will bring more cold temperatures, with Environment Canada forecasting a high of 7 C, and a wind chill of 27 C. The city says recreation centres and libraries are open as warming centres during regular business hours.

To avoid frostbite and hypothermia, the city advises residents to dress in layers of clothing, protect face, ears, hands and feet with dry scarves, hats, gloves and socks, preferably wool. It also says to drink warm fluids and avoid caffeine, alcohol and strenuous exercise..