TORONTO — A powerful snowstorm swept through much of southern and eastern Ontario earlier today, prompting Environment Canada to issue a winter storm warning for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and surrounding regions. Forecasters predict an additional 10 centimeters of snow by Sunday afternoon, with peak snowfall rates reaching 2 to 3 cm per hour, significantly reducing visibility.
“Conditions will gradually improve, but travel remains hazardous and is not recommended,” the national weather agency advised. Public Safety Canada also urged residents to prepare emergency kits with essentials like food, water, medicine, and flashlights.
City Crews Working Around the Clock
Toronto’s director of operations and maintenance, Vincent Sferrazza, warned that cleanup efforts will take several days.
“This is one of those storms where our crews will need to revisit all roads, cycling infrastructure, and sidewalks multiple times,” Sferrazza told CP24. “We’ll be clearing snow well into the early part of the week.”
Storm Impacts and Travel Disruptions
The heavy snowfall has led to widespread travel disruptions:
- Public Transit Delays: The TTC reported “residual delays” across the subway network, with no service on Line 2 between Woodbine and Kennedy and Line 1 between Bloor-Yonge and Lawrence due to snow buildup. Crews are working to clear tracks and restore service.
- GO Transit Modifications: Metrolinx announced service adjustments, including 30-minute train intervals on the Lakeshore East and West lines and delays of up to 30 minutes on GO buses due to poor road conditions.
- Flight Cancellations: Toronto Pearson Airport reported over 25% of departing flights canceled and 28% of arrivals affected, with crews using over 100 pieces of specialized equipment to clear the runways.
- Road Safety Concerns: The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) warned of “treacherous” driving conditions, advising motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and wait for roads to be cleared.
Public Safety Measures in Effect
- Toronto warming centers remain open to provide shelter for vulnerable residents, with six locations operating citywide.
- Library closures: All Toronto Public Library branches are closed for the day due to heavy snowfall.
- Parking restrictions: The City of Toronto reminded drivers to avoid designated snow routes, where parking fines range from $75 to $200.
Authorities Urge Caution
York Regional Police issued a warning for Lake Simcoe, advising extreme caution due to zero visibility and deep snow affecting foot traffic, snowmobiles, and ATVs. Officials also recommended downloading the “What3Words” app for emergency assistance.
Meanwhile, rideshare drivers were advised to be patient, as road conditions remain poor. “Many drivers are still out providing service where needed, but safety is the priority,” said George Wedge, president of the Ontario Rideshare Drivers Association.
As the storm tapers off into the evening, cleanup efforts will continue across the region. Officials urge residents to stay updated on weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
