Bitter cold, heavy snow forecast for Hamilton and Niagara

Everyone is talking about the cold. According to Environment Canada, we are not going to see another thaw until the first week of February.

We have had a roller coaster ride with the weather in our region. A few thaws and above zero temperatures. Recently temperatures have been hovering at -20 C and below. People CHCH News spoke to today are making the most of it.

Winter gear was worn by all at Waterdown Memorial Park in Hamilton today.

“I kinda like it. It’s nice and fresh out and gets the kids out of the house and doing something fun,” said one parent with her kids.

For others? Counting the days until the next thaw.

“Not coping at all. I was enjoying our little brief spring break earlier this week. I knew we were going to have good tobogganing weather,” said another parent.

“We’ve had about 100 cm of snow in the Hamilton area, which is about 35 per cent more snow than you would normally get,” David Phillips, a climatologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

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According to Environment Canada, that white stuff will be sticking around because sub zero temperatures to the tune of -23 C are in store for the Hamilton and Niagara region.

“In St. Catharines and Welland and Fort Erie, there’s a big snow squall coming. Winds are off Lake Erie. Lake Erie is not frozen over quite yet. South westerly winds are going to just create this lake effect snow that could dump anywhere from 20 to 40 cm of snow tonight and Monday in your viewing area,” said Phillips.

If travel is absolutely necessary, police are urging drivers to plan ahead, including clearing all ice and snow off your vehicle.

“Reduce your speed and drive according to the weather conditions. And also remember that the roadway could be visible one moment and gone the next due to high winds and blowing snow,” said OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk.

One thing to be thankful for today? The Skate Shack at Waterdown Memorial Park. A chance to defrost and head out to the rink. The cold did not deter skaters today. Doesn’t mean they 100 per cent liked it.

“I absolutely hate it. Being cold is the worst. I wear snow pants even when it’s only -1 C so I am always bundling up to stay warm,” said a skater at the rink.

So for those who are hoping for a reprieve from the sub zero temperatures we have been experiencing, sorry to tell you that you may have to wait until February for that.

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