Toronto wakes to a mild +10°C accompanied by mist this morning, under the shadow of a Special Weather Statement. The barometer reads 99.2 kPa and is on a downward trajectory, with humidity maxing out at 100%. Southeast winds blow at a gentle 14 km/h, but this relative calm is set to give way to a dramatic shift in weather conditions later today.
Imminent Weather Hazards
Residents should brace for a sharp cold front sweeping through southern Ontario this afternoon, marked by northwesterly winds gusting between 70 to 80 km/h. This sudden change is expected to bring icy conditions to roads and walkways, posing hazards to both drivers and pedestrians alike.
Critical Timing and Discussion
The transition will occur this afternoon into the evening, as temperatures plummet below freezing, transforming any rain into ice, with strong winds complicating conditions. This cold front’s passage will not only drop temperatures but also significantly increase the wind’s intensity, necessitating caution and preparation for sudden icy surfaces.
Today’s Forecast: A Rapid Decline
Toronto’s weather will turn from cloudy with a 40% chance of rain showers this morning to rain showers by noon, swiftly changing to flurries or ice pellets in the afternoon. There’s a risk of a thunderstorm this morning, with winds shifting from southwest 20 km/h gusting to 40, then to west 40 gusting to 70 near noon. Temperatures will peak at 13°C before falling to -2°C in the afternoon, with a low UV index of 1.
Overnight and Looking Ahead
Tonight, expect flurries accompanied by local blowing snow, contributing up to 2 cm of snowfall. The strong west wind will continue, gusting up to 70 km/h, and temperatures will drop to a low of -5°C, with wind chill factors nearing -13°C.
Thursday will be mainly cloudy with a 40% chance of morning flurries, clearing by late afternoon. Winds will persist from the west at 30 km/h, gusting to 50, with a high of 0°C and morning wind chills around -13°C. The UV index will slightly increase to 2.
The week’s end sees an improvement, with sunny skies on Friday and a high of +5°C, leading to increasing cloudiness at night and a low of +1°C. Saturday forecasts cloudy skies with a 30% chance of showers and a high of 8°C, dropping to +3°C at night.
Safety Measures
With the forecasted strong winds and sudden temperature drop, it’s crucial to prepare for icy conditions. Toronto residents are advised to wear non-slip footwear, drive cautiously, secure loose outdoor items, and stay updated on weather conditions as they evolve throughout the day.
Weather Trivia: Toronto
Toronto’s dynamic weather, particularly in transitional seasons, can lead to sudden weather phenomena like today’s sharp cold front. Such events highlight the city’s resilience and the importance of timely weather updates in navigating the challenges posed by its climate.
