Messy commute as heavy snowfall hits Windsor Friday afternoon

Heavy snowfall brought reduced visibility and slippery road conditions to Windsor-Essex on Friday afternoon.

According to a special weather statement from Environment and Climate Change Canada, snowfall with accumulationnear five centimetres is expected during the afternoon and early evening. Peak snowfall rates will be between two and four centimetres per hour.

Strong gusts of wind with "significantly reduced visibility in blowing snow," are possible, the agency warns.

"Snow is forecast to begin this afternoon and will be heavy at times before transitioning to rain this evening," Environment Canada said in a statement. "Motorists should expect hazardous winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly."

Environment Canada warns drivers to be prepared to adjust their driving and take extra care.

While Windsor is getting some snow accumulation on Friday, the same storm is expected to bringdouble-digit snowfall amounts to other parts of Ontario.

On Saturday, another two centimetres of snow is in the forecast. Periods of snow and blowing snow are expected to end around noon, with a possibility of flurries for the rest of the day. Winds will stay strong Saturday morning, with gusts up to 80 km/h, but easing slightly in the afternoon.

Nighttime is expected to usher in a deep chill, with a low of -9 C overnight. On Sunday, that cold continues with a daytime low of -9 C and -17 C overnight.

On Monday, the chill will stick around with a daytime high of -12 C.

Overnight shelters, warming centres available

The City of Windsor says there are resources available for those in need when the temperatures drops.

The Welcome Centre Shelter for Women opened an overnight warming centre, in addition to its shelter beds, in December, open to women who are homelessness.

The Downtown Mission also opened a warming centre and additional shelter bedsin December that are open to all. The Salvation Army has shelter beds for single men.

Residents are reminded to call 911 if they're concerned about a person who is homeless who is at immediate risk of cold-related injury like frostbite or hypothermia.

You can also call 311 during business hours Monday to Friday for someone who is not at immediate risk but could still use assistance from an outreach worker; residents can call 211 for a complete list of community services.

Snowfall amounts below seasonal

Earlier this week, an Environment Canada meteorologist said snowfall amounts in Windsor are on track to fall well below annual averages.

The average yearly snowfall is about 129 centimetres, said Peter Kimbell, warning preparedness meteorologist.

"We have a long way to catch up. It will take a lot... I doubt we will," he said, adding that a few big storms could change things."