Southern New Brunswick has seen its first significant snowfall of the season, and colder temperatures are on the way.

Environment Canada says preliminary reports show 12 to 15 centimetres of snow that fell in Greater Saint John and around 8 centimetres in Greater Moncton.

Other areas across southern New Brunswick, including St. Stephen, reported between 8 and 14 centimetres.

Meteorologist Jill Maepea said these numbers are still preliminary and will be updated on Thursday.

Maepea said the snowfall is typical for early December, even though recent years have been warmer.

“Moncton usually sees about 60 centimetres of snow in the month of December,” she said, adding that this storm was not out of the ordinary compared to seasonal averages.

She noted that road conditions should improve now that the snow has stopped, but is reminding drivers to be cautious, take extra time and clear snow from their vehicles.

“It is always a little bit longer to get where you need to go, but it’s part of the season,” Maepea said.

Looking ahead, Maepea said a cold front is expected to move through on Thursday, bringing some snow squalls and gusty winds.

She said temperatures will drop to levels more typical of January, marking the arrival of the first Arctic air mass of the season.

Environment Canada forecasts below‑seasonal temperatures into mid‑December, meaning the snow is likely to remain on the ground for the coming weeks.