The Toronto area is about to get a reminder that it's winter. (CP)

The Toronto area will be reminded this weekend that it is, in fact, winter.

Though the city has seen unseasonably warm temperatures and almost no snow for most of the season, Environment Canada is warning of a "sharp" Arctic cold front passing through with brisk winds and snow.

"Snowfall amounts of five to 10 centimetres are likely across portions of the southwest from London to Niagara, with about two to four [centimetres] around the Toronto area, and lesser amounts farther north and east," the agency said in a statement. "Also, bracing north winds up to 50 km/h will also create some local blowing snow and cold wind chills approaching -20 C to -25 C."

In advance of the deep freeze, the City of Toronto issued an extreme cold weather alert, advising homeless people to seek shelter.

"Extreme cold weather can be life-threatening to people who spend much of their time outdoors," said a news release from the city.

The declaration of an extreme cold weather emergency extends some city services, such as extra shelter beds and free transportation, for the needy.

Environment Canada said after a cold Saturday, temperatures will start to climb Sunday and return to above normal on Monday and Tuesday.