Area residents are being urged to prepare for a messy morning commute Thursday (Nov. 7).

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Durham, York, Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough that could lead to hazardous driving conditions.

“A developing low pressure system is expected to bring a messy mix of precipitation tonight into Thursday morning,” it reads.

“Precipitation is expected to begin as rain and then change over to light snow overnight or early Thursday morning. Falling temperatures through the morning may also cause roads to become icy or slippery.”

A snow squall advisory has been issued for parts of Simcoe County, including Orillia, that also urges caution from drivers.

“Isolated snow squalls are expected tonight. The snow squall bands are expected to begin this evening and shift southward through the night slowly moving out of the region by Thursday morning,” it reads.

“Total snowfall accumulations of locally 5 to 10 cm are expected by Thursday morning. Locally heavy snow is possible along with reduced visibilities at times. Falling temperatures tonight may also cause roads to become icy or slippery.”