Environment Canada has issued snow squall warnings for Niagara Region, with heavy and blowing snow expected in some areas on Monday.

Just after 5 a.m., the weather agency issued orange warnings for snow squalls in Niagara Falls and Fort Erie, while a yellow warning for a snow squall was issued for St. Catharines at 10:15 a.m.

For Niagara Falls and Fort Erie, the weather agency said snow squall will continue into this evening.

“Local snowfall amounts of 20 to 30 cm” are possible, Environment Canada said, adding that there will be westerly winds gusting 70 to 90 km/h.

Those strong westerly winds will develop late this morning, producing areas of near zero visibility in heavy snow and blowing snow, according to Environment Canada. 

The agency said people should prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions, and non-essential travel and outdoor activities should be avoided.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada says St. Catharines will see snowfall amounts of 10 to 20 cm.

The agency is warning of significantly reduced visibility due to heavy snow and blowing snow. Westerly winds gusting up to 70 km/h are expected this afternoon and evening, resulting in blowing snow.

It says lake effect snow squalls are expected to move out of the area this afternoon.

Orange is the second most serious of Environment Canada’s three colour-coded warnings after red, and before yellow — the least serious warning.