GTA Schools and Campuses Close as Winter Storm Dumps 21 cm of Snow
A major winter storm blanketed the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) overnight, forcing multiple GTA schools, school boards and post-secondary institutions to close on Thursday. The storm, which delivered up to 21 cm of snow, has also caused hazardous road conditions and travel disruptions.
Schools and Campuses Affected by Closures
The following school boards have canceled classes for the day:
- Toronto District School Board (TDSB)
- Halton District School Board
- Halton Catholic District School Board
- Peel District School Board
- Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board
Several colleges and universities have also closed their campuses, including:
- Centennial College
- Humber Polytechnic
- George Brown College
- University of Toronto Mississauga
Meanwhile, York University and Toronto Metropolitan University remain open.
The University of Toronto Scarborough campus has canceled all morning classes, labs, and tutorials until noon. On-campus events are also postponed.
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Legislative Assembly of Ontario Closed
The Legislative Assembly of Ontario has also shut down for the day. Operations will resume on Friday.
The plows are working to clear the roads, the snow continues to fall. Please help the snow clearing operations by staying off the roads. #OnStorm ^ks pic.twitter.com/taq7wefJ5O
— OPP Highway Safety Division (@OPP_HSD) February 13, 2025
Environment Canada Reports Significant Snowfall
Environment Canada confirmed that the storm brought 15 to 20 cm of snow and ice pellets to Toronto. The heaviest snowfall occurred overnight Wednesday into early Thursday.
Daniel Sheldon, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, reported that Toronto Pearson International Airport recorded 21 cm of snow by 5 a.m. Thursday. While snowfall is tapering off, light flurries and blowing snow may persist through the morning.
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Road Conditions and Travel Warnings
Authorities are warning of treacherous road conditions due to snow accumulation and freezing rain in some areas.
- The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) posted a video showing cars stuck in snowbanks on Highway 401 near Islington.
- Snowplows are actively working to clear major roads, but officials urge drivers to stay home if possible.
- Freezing rain affected areas like Burlington, Hamilton, and Niagara, creating slick road conditions.
Sheldon advised motorists to allow extra travel time, drive cautiously, and leave extra space between vehicles.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Environment Canada urges residents to take breaks while shoveling snow to avoid overexertion. Officials also recommend:
- Staying off the roads unless necessary
- Clearing sidewalks and driveways safely
- Dressing in warm layers to prevent cold exposure
The storm is expected to move out of the region by Thursday afternoon, but lingering snow and wind could continue to cause travel disruptions.
More…
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/gta-schools-closing-winter-storm-1.7458024
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/canada-braces-for-major-winter-storm
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/article/eastern-storm-cuts-power-to-tens-of-thousands-as-california-braces-for-flooding
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