A significant winter storm is making its way into southern Ontario from the United States, with forecasts predicting a snowfall accumulation of over 20 to 30 centimeters in several areas. This impending weather system, expected to impact the region on Sunday, poses a serious threat, not just in terms of heavy snow, but also with potential travel disruptions and power outages.
The storm will particularly affect regions around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the Golden Horseshoe, and the Niagara area, extending its reach into parts of southwestern and eastern Ontario. Residents in these areas should be prepared for substantial snowfall totals ranging from 20 to over 30 centimeters.
With yellow-coded winter storm watches and warnings currently issued, travelers are advised to avoid non-essential journeys this weekend. Conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, so allow for extra time if you must travel.
For those planning to venture out, delays at highways and airports are likely, especially as the storm begins to intensify over the weekend. Instead of braving the elements, consider curling up with a good book or enjoying a cozy video game as the snow blankets the area.
This winter storm is fueled by an influx of moisture from the south colliding with frigid air that has settled over eastern Canada. This combination sets the stage for widespread heavy snow, particularly across southern Ontario where the cold temperatures will ensure that all precipitation falls as snow.
As the temperature dips between -10 to -20 degrees Celsius, the snow is expected to be light and fluffy, which can make it challenging for snowplows to keep roads clear. Drivers on major routes like the QEW, 401, 404, and 407 should anticipate significant impacts due to the expected accumulation of snow.
Snowfall is forecasted to commence on Sunday morning, peaking in intensity during the afternoon and evening hours, with the snowfall continuing into Monday morning. Wind gusts may reach up to 60 kilometers per hour on Sunday evening, leading to reduced visibility from blowing snow, particularly in open areas and along the shores of Lake Ontario.
The snow squall risk extends from Hamilton to Pickering, including cities like Oakville and Toronto, where the most severe conditions and highest snow totals are anticipated. Meanwhile, communities located north of Highway 407—such as London, Barrie, and areas extending towards Ottawa—should prepare for lighter snow accumulations between 10 to 20 centimeters.
Eastern Ontario is also on alert, expecting 10 to 25 centimeters of snow, especially around Ottawa, with travel issues likely persisting into early Monday morning. Given the anticipated conditions, traveling during peak snowfall is not recommended, and disruptions are expected to carry on into the start of the week.
Any snow that does fall is likely to remain, as temperatures are expected to stay well below freezing for the remainder of the month. Looking ahead to next week, extremely cold conditions will continue, with daily highs mainly hovering in the minus teens and lows often dipping to around -20 degrees Celsius. These colder-than-average temperatures are expected to last at least into the first few days of February, with a return to more seasonal temperatures anticipated around February 5. However, another round of colder weather could return by mid-February.
Stay tuned to The Weather Network for continuous updates on the winter storm and its effects across Ontario.
