Travel Advisory Issued Amidst Snowfall and Blowing Snow Concerns
TORONTO – WEATHER – Toronto residents are waking up to chilly conditions at -5°C, under a weather advisory due to an expected short duration of heavy snowfall later today.
The barometer reads 102.2 kPa and is falling, indicating an approaching weather system.
Humidity stands at 69%, with very light winds from the west-southwest at 3 km/h. However, the calm of the morning is set to give way to more severe weather conditions as the day progresses.
Today’s Weather Hazards
Visibility on the roads is expected to reduce significantly during the heavy snow, with total snowfall accumulations ranging from 5 to 10 cm. The peak snowfall rates could reach 2 to 4 cm per hour this afternoon, making travel challenging and potentially hazardous.
Timing and Discussion of Winter Conditions
The heavy snow is forecasted to roll through the region this afternoon, with the majority of snowfall expected to occur within just a few hours, leading to rapid accumulation.
Following this, snow will taper off into lake effect flurries by this evening, especially north and west of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Moreover, strong northwesterly winds are anticipated to gust up to 70 km/h this evening and overnight, exacerbating conditions with the potential for reduced visibility due to blowing snow, particularly in rural areas.
Extended Forecast
- Tonight: The weather will shift to partly cloudy skies with a 60 percent chance of flurries. Winds will change to the west at 40 km/h, gusting to 70 km/h, with a low of -4°C and wind chills dropping to -13°C overnight.
- Friday: Expect mainly cloudy skies with a 60 percent chance of flurries and northwest winds at 20 km/h gusting to 40, becoming light by noon. The high is forecasted at 0°C, with morning wind chills around -10°C.
- Weekend Outlook: Saturday and Sunday will see a mix of sun and cloud, with flurries likely. Temperatures will hover around -4°C for highs and dip to lows of -8°C and -6°C, respectively.
Given the expected conditions, Toronto residents are advised to prepare for challenging travel conditions today and into the evening. It is recommended to limit non-essential travel, keep emergency supplies in vehicles, and stay updated on the latest weather forecasts.
