With October winding down and November just around the corner, Ontarians are set to enjoy unseasonably warm weather, as temperatures soar to 19 degrees in Barrie. As the mild weather keeps people outdoors Thursday, many are already wondering what winter has in store and when residents could see the season’s biggest blasts of snow and cold. Not your average winter blanket According to the Farmers’ Almanac, Ontario could be in for frequent snowfall, lake-effect snow, freezing rain and temperature swings. Southern Ontario could see more snow than usual, despite a drier season overall. The Farmers’ Almanac predicts “above-normal snowfall” across the province, with the snowiest periods anticipated in early and late January and again in mid-March. The coldest stretches are in store for mid- and late January and early and late February. Temperatures are expected to be below normal in eastern Ontario, while western areas could see above-normal temperatures. Mother Nature’s mood swings One of the biggest concerns this winter may be the frequent changes in weather conditions. The Farmers’ Almanac says people could see storms that begin with snow, switch to freezing rain and then turn icy as temperatures drop. Lake-effect snow could also bring heavy accumulations to areas downwind of the Great Lakes, while northern Ontario is expected to experience “more consistent” winter conditions. Rather than months of steady cold, the forecast points to a winter marked by sharp temperature swings, with mild spells followed by Arctic air, storms and sudden freezes. For residents here at home, that could mean plenty of opportunities to put the shovel and snowblower to work. Farmers’ Almanac predictions These predictions are not guaranteed and actual conditions will vary throughout the province. For now, people can enjoy Thursday’s high. But if the Farmers’ Almanac outlook holds true, winter could bring more than its fair share of snow and ice. Last year, the City of Barrie declared a significant weather event on Dec. 28, beginning what officials said became the longest continuous period Barrie has ever spent under the declaration. First issued in 1818, the Farmers’ Almanac is an annual publication that shares weather predictions, gardening tips and astronomical data.
