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Heavy Snowfall Hits Region
Toronto snow storm conditions intensified early Thursday morning, prompting a critical alert upgrade. Environment Canada initially issued a yellow warning but raised the stakes to an orange alert before 8 a.m. This elevated status covers Toronto, Peel, and southern York. It also includes Durham, Guelph, Kitchener, and the Niagara region.
Forecasters expect massive snowfall totals between 20 and 35 centimetres. These heavy accumulations will likely cause significant disruptions across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Meteorologists warn that this system represents the most significant winter event to hit the region since early 2022. “Stay ahead of the storm — subscribe to our website and follow PhoenixQ on social media for real-time weather alerts and live updates.”
Dangerous Commutes and Closures
Hazardous travel conditions have forced authorities to urge residents to avoid non-essential trips. High winds and local blowing snow have reduced visibility to near-zero levels in several areas. Consequently, almost all school boards across the GTA closed their doors to students and staff on Thursday. Only the Durham region kept schools open, despite cancelling all bus routes.
At Toronto Pearson International Airport, the Toronto snow storm triggered dozens of flight cancellations. On the ground, black ice and deep snow paralyzed major highways and expressways. Local police reported numerous collisions as drivers struggled with the slippery conditions and frigid temperatures.
Frigid Temperatures and New Warning System
The mercury plummeted overnight, reaching a bone-chilling -22°C with the wind chill by Thursday morning. This extreme cold adds another layer of danger to the already severe weather. Environment Canada noted that a low-pressure system continues to drive this moisture into southern Ontario.
The agency recently adopted a colour-coded system to clarify public risks. Orange alerts specifically signal weather likely to cause widespread damage or health impacts. These events are uncommon, whereas red alerts remain extremely rare. While the snow should taper off late Thursday afternoon, the frigid Arctic air will likely linger through the week.
