The calendar has officially turned to December, and with it, meteorological winter has arrived in southern Ontario. While the season's start is marked on weather maps, the immediate forecast for the London area offers a brief reprieve before more typical conditions move in.
A Mild and Windy Start to the Week
According to the latest forecast from meteorologist Julie Atchison, the region experienced a mild but windy Monday. This weather pattern served as a temporary interlude, offering residents a last taste of autumn-like conditions before the shift towards winter precipitation.
The arrival of meteorological winter, which for record-keeping purposes runs from December 1 through the end of February, signals the beginning of the coldest quarter of the year. This period is distinct from the astronomical winter, which begins with the solstice later in the month.
Snow in the Forecast for Tuesday
The mild start to the week is not set to last. Forecasters are tracking a system that is expected to bring a return of snow to the region on Tuesday. This anticipated snowfall aligns with the seasonal transition, reminding residents that the warmer temperatures are fleeting.
While significant accumulation predictions were not detailed in the initial brief, the expectation of snow so soon after the start of meteorological winter underscores the changeable nature of southern Ontario's climate during this transitional period.
Preparing for the Seasonal Shift
The shift into meteorological winter is a key marker for municipalities, road maintenance crews, and residents alike. It triggers the full implementation of winter road management plans and serves as a reminder for people to finalize their seasonal preparations.
This includes ensuring vehicles are winter-ready, having appropriate snow removal equipment on hand, and checking home heating systems. The forecast for snow following a mild day is a classic pattern for the region, often catching some unprepared.
As Julie Atchison and other meteorologists monitor the systems moving into the Great Lakes region, the public is advised to stay updated on the latest forecasts. The specific timing, intensity, and accumulation of Tuesday's expected snow will become clearer as the system develops.
