Winter Storm Warning in Effect – Hazardous Travel Conditions Ahead
Toronto is gearing up for a winter storm this weekend, with a Winter Storm Warning issued by Environment Canada.
A powerful low-pressure system is set to bring 25 to 35 cm of snow, significantly reducing visibility and making travel treacherous—especially on Sunday when snowfall rates could hit 3 to 6 cm per hour.
As of 6:00 AM EST, conditions at Toronto Pearson International Airport are mostly cloudy, with a temperature of -5.5°C.
The humidity sits at 87%, and the barometric pressure is falling at 102.7 kPa, signalling the approaching storm. A northeast wind at 12 km/h makes it feel like -10°C outside.
Saturday’s Forecast: Snow Moves In By Noon
The morning begins cloudy, with a 60% chance of light snow. By noon, snow will begin in earnest, with about 5 cm expected by evening. Winds from the southeast will increase to 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, adding to the wintery mix. The high today will reach -3°C, but the wind chill will make it feel like -16°C this morning and -9°C this afternoon.
Tonight: Snow, Gusty Winds & Possible Freezing Drizzle
Expect periods of snow overnight, with an additional 2 to 4 cm of accumulation. The bigger concern is the risk of freezing drizzle near the Golden Horseshoe, which could lead to slippery road conditions. Winds will strengthen from the east at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, creating blowing snow and reducing visibility. The low will drop to -5°C, with a wind chill near -13°C.
Sunday: The Storm Intensifies – Heavy Snow & Blowing Snow
Sunday is shaping up to be the worst day of the storm, with 15 to 25 cm of snow expected, and local blowing snow reducing visibility to near zero at times. Winds from the northeast will remain strong at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, making travel extremely difficult. The daytime high will be -4°C, but it will feel more like -14°C with the wind chill.
By Sunday night, the heavy snow will ease into flurries, with temperatures dropping to -8°C.
Monday: More Flurries & Windy Conditions
The storm system will weaken by Monday, but the aftermath will still be felt. The forecast calls for cloudy skies with a 60% chance of flurries and local blowing snow, with a high of -6°C. Winds will remain strong, keeping wind chills frigid. Monday night will be partly cloudy, with a 40% chance of flurries and a low of -11°C.
Travel Advisory: Avoid Non-Essential Travel
With heavy snowfall, strong winds, and the possibility of freezing drizzle, travel will be hazardous throughout the weekend. Roads and highways could become impassable at times, and visibility may drop suddenly. If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home.
Public Safety Canada advises residents to have an emergency kit ready, including food, water, medication, flashlights, and blankets. Power outages are possible, so charge your devices and be prepared.
Wardrobe Recommendations: Full Winter Gear Required
If you must go outside, dress for extreme winter conditions. A thick insulated coat, thermal layers, waterproof boots, gloves, a toque, and a scarf are essential. The blowing snow will make conditions even colder, so ensure you’re fully covered.
Toronto Weather Trivia: A February Blizzard to Remember
One of Toronto’s worst winter storms occurred on February 25, 1965, when 39 cm of snow fell in a single day, paralyzing the city. While this weekend’s storm may not reach that record, it will certainly be one of the most significant storms of the season.
Stay safe, Toronto! If you don’t have to go out, stay indoors, sip on some hot chocolate, and enjoy the snow from the comfort of your home.
