Extreme cold warning ends, special weather statement remains for Barrie, Orillia, Collingwood

The extreme cold warning has ended for the Barrie, Orillia, Midland and Collingwood areas.

However, the special weather statement issued by Environment Canada on Tuesday morning remains.

According to Environment Canada, snow is expected to hit the region Tuesday night before periods of freezing rain on Wednesday.

Officials say a brief thaw and strong winds and rain are also expected.

According to the weather agency, a Colorado low will track northeast across Lake Huron and Georgian Bay on Wednesday, bringing a dramatic change of weather with it.

Officials say a band of snow will move through the region Tuesday night.

Environment Canada says snowfall amounts between five and 10 centimetres is expected.

However, regions closer to Lake Huron and Georgian Bay could receive between 10 and 15 centimetres.

According to Environment Canada, the snow will change over to a period of freezing rain by Wednesday morning.

Environment Canada says the freezing rain could last several hours before changing to rain on Wednesday with the passage of a warm front.

Officials say a brief thaw will arrive with temperatures rising at least a couple of degrees above freezing.

Environment Canada says strong southwesterly wind gusts between 70 km/h and 80 km/h are also expected on Wednesday.