Northern Ontario: From 20 degrees to 20 cm of snow

Friday, November 20, 2015, 6:00 AM - Talk about contrast. On Wednesday North Bay was the hot spot of the entire country after daytime temperatures sky rocketed to 19.8°C, well above the seasonal average for this time of year.

Now, the region is bracing for snow, blowing snow and colder air, as an early blast of winter targets the area this weekend.

A series of watches, warnings and special weather statements were issued for northern Ontario early Friday, including a winter storm warning with the threat of 20+ cm of snow for some places.

"Snow heavy at times and blowing snow will continue today as northwest winds gust to 80 km/h, reducing visibilities to 800 m or less," said Environment Canada in the warning. "The snow will taper off this evening but the gusty winds and blowing snow will continue until Saturday morning."

Drivers are being urged to postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve.

"Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow," EC warns. "Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow."