Stay Safe on Ontario’s Highways This Festive Season
As families across Ontario hit the road for holiday celebrations, winter weather adds an extra layer of complexity to travel plans. From Ottawa to Toronto, Geraldton to Sault Ste. Marie, and beyond, road conditions vary widely with snow, freezing drizzle, and icy patches reported across the province. Here’s your comprehensive highway report and travel safety guide to ensure you reach your destination safely.
Weather and Road Conditions for Key Regions
- Ottawa: Snow transitions to cloudy skies today with flurries possible. Wind chills of -16°C this morning and freezing drizzle risks tonight could make highways slick, especially on ramps and overpasses.
- Toronto: Cloudy skies with a mild high of 1°C today. Freezing drizzle risks tonight and temperatures steady around -4°C overnight mean icy patches may develop, especially on bridges and in low-traffic areas.
- Sudbury: Light snow clears by morning, but wind chills as low as -18°C today and freezing drizzle risks overnight demand extra caution. Temperatures drop to -16°C tonight, increasing the risk of ice.
- Sault Ste. Marie: Wind chills near -15°C this morning improve by afternoon, but freezing drizzle risks tonight and patchy fog could make for challenging driving conditions.
- Geraldton: Cloudy with flurries and wind chills as low as -22°C this morning. Freezing drizzle risks continue overnight, creating slippery conditions on highways and secondary routes.
- Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, and Sioux Lookout: Snow flurries and gusty winds create snowdrifts and icy patches. Freezing drizzle risks tonight mean drivers should be cautious on untreated surfaces.
Highway Travel Conditions
Main highways like the 401, Highway 17, Highway 11, and other major routes are regularly maintained, but winter weather can make even well-cleared roads hazardous. Reduced visibility, drifting snow, and icy patches are common. Fog patches around Sault Ste. Marie and freezing drizzle in Ottawa, Toronto, and Sudbury could reduce visibility and create slick road surfaces.
For live updates on road closures, collisions, and winter maintenance schedules, check 511ON before heading out.
Winter Travel Safety Tips
Before You Leave:
- Check tire pressure and ensure your vehicle has winter tires.
- Top up all fluids, especially windshield washer fluid rated for -40°C or lower.
- Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including lights and mirrors.
On the Road:
- Reduce your speed and increase following distances.
- Use low-beam headlights in snow or fog for better visibility.
- Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas as they freeze faster.
Essential Items to Carry in Your Vehicle:
- Winter Survival Kit: Include blankets, warm clothing, and high-calorie snacks.
- Emergency Tools: A flashlight, jumper cables, an ice scraper, and a small shovel.
- First Aid Kit: For minor injuries or emergencies.
- Phone Charger: Stay connected, even in remote areas.
- Sand or Kitty Litter: For traction if stuck on icy surfaces.
- Flares or Reflective Triangles: Make your vehicle visible in poor conditions.
- Paper Maps or GPS Device: Don’t rely solely on phones in areas with limited signal.
Additional Safety Reminders
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent freezing in extreme cold.
- If stranded, stay in your vehicle and call for help. Exiting your vehicle in severe conditions can be dangerous.
- Let someone know your travel route and expected arrival time before you leave.
Stay Prepared for Holiday Travel
Ontario’s highways connect families and communities, but winter weather can make the journey challenging. By staying informed, packing essential items, and adjusting your driving habits to match the conditions, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable holiday season.
Remember check 511ON for real-time road conditions, and have a happy and safe holiday!
