Wind gusts up to 90 km/h expected as Environment Canada issues wind warning for Hamilton and area

Strong southwesterly and northwesterly wind gusts of 80 to 90 km/h are in the forecast for Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford and the Niagara Region on Monday, says Environment Canada.

In a yellow warning issued just after 5:30 a.m., the federal weather agency says "strong southwesterly winds" are expected to develop this morning with the passage of "a strong cold front."

The winds will become northwesterly through the afternoon, and will ease this evening, the agency said.

As the warning remains in effect, people are being advised of the following:

• Local utility outages are possible.

• Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible.

• Some property damage is possible.

• Secure loose objects.

A yellow warning indicates a chance of localized or short-term moderate impacts, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Snow squalls possible in Brantford

In addition to the wind warning, Environment Canada has also issued a snow squall watch for Brantford.

The agency says snow squalls are possible beginning late this morning or this afternoon and easing to scattered flurries Tuesday morning or afternoon.

There will be “near zero visibility at times in local blowing snow,” the agency said, adding that “total local snowfall amounts of 10 to 20 cm” are expected.

Environment Canada says travel in the area may be extremely hazardous, and road closures and utility outages are possible.

“Consider rescheduling travel and outdoor activities. Prepare for the possibility of quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” it warns.