As much as they may want to layer up on their local patios and pretend that it's still relatively mild outside, Ontario residents are being dealt a swift reality check this week, with Mother Nature reminding everyone that winter is fast approaching — or, based on the snow and ice currently hitting some regions, that it's already here.

Winter has arrived. Lake effect snow squalls are expected tonight. Temperatures above freezing should keep accumulations limited. #onstorm pic.twitter.com/GWRix5CkF6

— Peter 🌪️ (@pg_weather) November 2, 2021

As of mid-Tuesday afternoon, #ONStorm began trending on Twitter, with tons of people across the southern portion of the province sharing their photos, videos and general accounts of frigid weather, bleak-looking skies and wintry precipitation.

Meanwhile north of #Toronto & the #GTA 🥶❄️#Onwx #ONStorm https://t.co/XD85aYNdAx

— Rachel Modestino TWN (@ThatMetGirl) November 2, 2021

Snow and hail have been reported around Guelph, Ottawa and Orangeville, as well as near Perth and a bit north in cottage country locales as parts of the province battle the beginnings of some wet, heavy squalls, freezing temps and strong winds.

Pretty sure that’s snow ahead…. Heading east out of Listowel. @weathernetwork #ONStorm pic.twitter.com/CiSHjHFEAA

— Mark Robinson (@StormhunterTWN) November 2, 2021

People in downtown Toronto are also citing hail and large, wet snowflakes, the first for the city this season.

big wet snowflakes on the waterfront #dlws #toronto pic.twitter.com/9qe64kpQPW

— jennifer evans (@nejsnave) November 2, 2021

Though above-zero temperatures in most areas mean the snow isn't really sticking to the ground just yet, there are some places where accumulation has visibly started amid a decent sprinkling and an undeniable chill.

First snow to stick in #waubaushene #onstorm pic.twitter.com/5UluPaXSKj

— Al (@alain_proulx) November 2, 2021

In Muskoka, there was even enough snow to play in and build snowmen out of today, which gave people something to do while parts of the municipality  experienced a power outage.

A little snow and a power outage in Muskoka this morning. #ONStorm pic.twitter.com/0DGONf5reu

— Muskoka411 News (@Muskoka411) November 2, 2021

Of course, there have been plenty of citizens complaining about the dreaded onset of the cold, but there are also quite a few celebrating it.

Husky weather has arrived 🐕@weathernetwork #onstorm ❄️ pic.twitter.com/AbsbgxmpRe

— 44 North — Bruce & Grey (@44Nmedia) November 2, 2021

Drivers are being advised to look out for slippery conditions and reduced visibility, and also to exercise caution, especially seeing as most have yet to switch to their winter tires.

Ontario Provincial Police have already had to attend to dozens of accidents in the last 24 hours.

Winter conditions are here! #SGBOPP Officers currently at vehicle crashes on Highway 400 near White's Falls Road @gbtownship with speed and snow as the culprits! Washer fluid, ice scrapper, snow tires and Drive to The Road Conditions folks, Winter is near! @511ONCentral ^DH pic.twitter.com/mJQjlkLNbC

— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) November 1, 2021

In Toronto, it's presently 8 C, which feels more like 4 C and will dip down to - 1 C by Wednesday night.

There's the potential for some lake effect snow around the province over the course of this week, as well as lower thermometer readings than we've been used to lately. And, after a flip-floppy November, weather-wise, we will be seeing more winter weather ahead of the holidays this year than we usually do.

Evidently, it's time to break out the winter wardrobe (and hey, the skis, snowboards, and skates, too!) if anyone in denial of the season has yet to do so.