Winter wallop expected in Waterloo region late Wednesday

A winter storm is expected to hit Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County late Wednesday and into Thursday, a winter storm watch says.

• Latest Waterloo region conditions from CBC Weather

Environment Canada issued the storm watch on Tuesday. It says a Colorado low is expected to bring snow, ice pellets and freezing rain to the area. This could impact the commute home Wednesday and Thursday morning for people walking, cycling, taking transit or driving.

"Precipitation may fall heavily at times leading to hazardous winter travel conditions," the winter storm watch says.

"There remains some uncertainty for the exact location and timing of the precipitation, as well as the amount of ice accretion that may occur."

The weather agency also warned power outages are possible when there's a prolonged period of freezing rain.

Environment Canada predicts Wednesday to bring "snow mixed with ice pellets beginning late in the afternoon. Risk of freezing rain late in the afternoon. Wind east 30 km/h gusting to 50. Temperature steady near minus 2. Wind chill near minus 10."

Policewarn drivers

The Ontario Provincial Police in West Region issued messages on social media to remind drivers in particular to be prepared for changing weather conditions.

"Top up your washer fluid, gas tank and check your tire tread for wear," police said in one tweet.