Winter similar to last year, but not as harsh (9 photos)

Residents of Sudbury haunted by memories of last year's harsh conditions may not be happy to hear the upcoming winter forecast.

The Weather Network’s meteorologists in their winter outlook have forecast a weather pattern much like last year for Greater Sudbury.

“We’re seeing below seasonal temperatures for most of the country, with a lot of similarities to last year," said meteorologist Doug Gillham.

On the bright side, this winter won't be as harsh, or persistently cold as last year, with a mix of seasonally high and low temperatures.

December will be a month of ups and downs with no particular weather pattern. Temperatures will be mild and above seasonal in the first two weeks, a contrast from last year.

However, much like the previous winter, weather systems should lock into a pattern for the months of January and February.

Right now, meteorologists are tracking an active storm south of the border, which means that no large snow events are expected this year, with a near normal prediction for total precipitation.

Parts of southern Ontario will be most affected by this storm and can expect a high level of snowfall this winter.

While Gillham said Sudbury won’t be getting as much snow, he advised that, “what you get, you’re likely to keep.”

Most of Ontario and Quebec should experience below normal temperatures this winter, with a slow arrival of spring.