Powerful Ice Storm to Impact Ontario This Weekend

A significant ice storm is expected to sweep across much of Ontario this weekend, bringing freezing rain, ice pellets, and snow, according to Environment Canada. The federal agency issued special weather statements on Wednesday, warning residents of dangerous ice accretion, potential power outages, and hazardous travel.

Key Details of the Forecast

• Storm Timeline: Beginning Friday evening, continuing through Monday in some areas
• Regions Affected: Central and northeastern Ontario, including Toronto, with snowy conditions in the northwest
• Ice Accretion: Expected to be “significant”, especially from Parry Sound to Kingston
• Snowfall Accumulation: Ranging from 5 to 20 cm, depending on location and storm trajectory
• Travel Risk: Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and broken tree branches

Toronto and Southern Ontario

Toronto is among the regions included in the special weather statement. While final ice totals remain uncertain, confidence is highest for extensive freezing rain affecting areas east and northeast of the city. Residents should prepare for:

• Icy sidewalks and roads
• Power outages due to ice buildup on lines
• Possible disruption to transit and commuting

Northwestern Ontario: Snow Continues

Meanwhile, northwestern Ontario is bracing for another round of heavy snow, beginning Thursday night and continuing into Friday evening or even Monday morning in some areas.

Areas impacted:

• Thunder Bay to White River
• Regions near the Manitoba border
• Risk of freezing rain and ice pellets in border zones

Snowfall could reach:

• 10 to 20 cm, depending on elevation and local conditions

Environment Canada cautions that visibility may be reduced, and roads could become treacherous during peak periods of snow and ice.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised to:

• Monitor Environment Canada updates closely
• Charge devices in advance of possible outages
• Limit unnecessary travel during peak storm hours
• Use winter tires and emergency kits if driving is required

With the mix of snow, ice, and freezing rain, this spring storm is shaping up to be one of the season’s most disruptive yet. Ontario residents, particularly in affected regions like Toronto, Parry Sound, Kingston, and the northwest, should prepare for power interruptions and hazardous roads from Thursday night through Monday.

Stay tuned to Environment Canada for official weather warnings and updates as the system evolves.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ice-storm-ontario-weekend-1.7494446
• https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/1.7494682 
• https://www.ctvnews.ca/weather/article/late-season-storms-bring-major-snow-across-canada