Toronto Braces for Snow Day as Environment Canada Issues Snowfall Warning

Toronto residents are being urged to prepare for a potential snow day as Environment Canada issues a snowfall warning for the city and much of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). A winter storm system moving into southern Ontario is expected to bring significant snowfall starting Wednesday evening and continuing into Thursday.

Meteorologists say 15 to 20 centimetres of snow could accumulate in parts of Toronto, with heavier amounts possible in nearby regions such as York, Peel, Durham, Niagara and Port Hope. Snowfall rates may intensify overnight, reducing visibility and making roads slippery during the Thursday morning commute.

Environment Canada warned that rapid accumulation of snow, combined with blowing snow in open areas, could make travel difficult. Drivers are being advised to slow down, leave extra stopping distance and expect delays, especially on highways and major arterial roads.

City officials say Toronto’s winter maintenance crews are preparing in advance by salting main roads, transit routes, sidewalks and hills. Snowplows will be deployed once accumulation reaches required levels, with priority given to emergency routes, TTC bus corridors and major streets.

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is also monitoring conditions closely, as heavy snow can impact bus schedules and streetcar service. Commuters are encouraged to check for service updates and allow extra travel time.

Along with snowfall, temperatures are expected to drop sharply, with overnight lows nearing -9 °C and wind chills as low as -22 °C by Thursday morning. The cold conditions could make outdoor activities uncomfortable and increase the risk of frostbite with prolonged exposure.

Schools, businesses and workplaces are watching forecasts closely, as deteriorating weather conditions could lead to delays, closures or remote learning decisions depending on how the storm develops.Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, stock up on essentials and monitor official weather updates from Environment Canada. The agency notes that snowfall totals could change as the storm track becomes clearer over the next several hours