Commuters in southern Ontario, including Toronto, should prepare for a messy drive home on Wednesday. Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning as a major winter storm approaches.
Snow is set to start late Wednesday afternoon, continuing into Thursday morning. The forecast predicts around 15 centimeters of snow, with heavier snowfall expected during the night. At times, snowfall could reach rates of 2 to 4 centimeters per hour.
There may also be icy pellets mixed in with the snow late Wednesday night, but it should gradually ease off by Thursday morning. Visibility could be low, making driving challenging. It’s important for drivers to stay alert and adapt to changing road conditions.
The snowfall warnings affect numerous areas, including Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, and Hamilton. Regions like Barrie and Collingwood are even under a winter storm warning, with total snowfall potentially reaching up to 30 centimeters and peak rates exceeding 5 centimeters an hour.
Before the storm starts, the City of Toronto announced that parking on snow routes will be banned starting at 10 p.m. Wednesday to allow snow removal crews to operate more efficiently. Vehicles left on these roads could be towed, and owners may face fines of up to $200. This declaration means the city will operate under different maintenance standards due to the expected snowfall.
Barbara Gray, the city’s transportation services manager, emphasized that snow routes are clearly marked year-round. Additionally, residents are reminded not to shovel snow onto city streets or sidewalks.
Looking ahead, more snow could arrive over the weekend, possibly adding another 35 centimeters by Sunday night. These weather conditions may affect commutes again on Thursday, with ice pellets and freezing rain creating slippery roads.
Geoff Coulson, a meteorologist at Environment Canada, urged residents to limit travel during the storm. He noted that while most snow will have fallen by Thursday morning, hazardous conditions could persist, making it safer to stay home if possible.
Travelers should also be aware that numerous flights have been canceled as airlines prepare for the storm. Toronto Pearson International Airport suggested checking flight statuses for updates. Staff will work to clear snow from runways overnight to ensure safe operations as soon as conditions allow.
For anyone out on the roads, exercise caution and stay informed about weather updates as southern Ontario braces for a challenging winter storm.
