Environment Canada has now issued a wind warning for southern Peterborough County, southern Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County for Saturday.
A north-to-south-oriented cold front will track east across southern Ontario, expected to reach the Kawarthas region by mid-to-late morning.
Westerly winds gusting to 90 km/h will continue throughout the afternoon in the wake of the cold front.
A special weather statement for strong winds also remains in effect for northern Peterborough County, northern Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Hastings County. South or southwest winds with gusts up to 60 km/h are expected ahead of the cold front, followed by west or northwest winds with gusts up to 80 km/h along and behind the front.
The strongest winds will only last an hour or so as the cold front passes. Winds are expected to ease from west to east in the evening.
The strong winds may damage roof shingles and windows and cause tree branches to break. The winds may also toss loose objects and damage soft shelters, tents, and awnings at outdoor events. Hydro One crews are prepared to respond to power outages that may be caused by damaging winds.
People may want to exercise caution while attending Santa Claus parades in the Kawarthas on Saturday. Parades take place in Bancroft at 2:30 p.m., Peterborough at 4:45 p.m., Cobourg at 6 p.m., and Pontypool at 6:30 p.m.
