A special weather statement is in effect for parts of Southern Ontario with strong winds expected to sweep through the region on Thursday.

Environment Canada says strong wind gusts between 80 and 90 km/h could impact Hamilton, Halton and Niagara Region during the afternoon.

“Winds will shift to the southwest and strengthen to up to 90 km/h this afternoon with the passage of a cold front. Wind warnings may be issued for some areas as the system approaches,” states a public alert on the Government of Canada’s website.

The weather agency says utility outages are also possible.

Special weather statements are the least urgent type of alert and are issued to let people know that conditions are unusual and could cause concern.