Toronto Braces for Heavy Snowfall as Winter Storm Warning Takes Effect

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for Toronto, predicting 25 to 35 cm of snow starting Saturday afternoon. Snowfall is expected to intensify on Sunday, creating hazardous travel conditions.

Snowfall Forecast and Travel Impact

The storm will begin with up to 10 cm of snow on Saturday evening. Snow will rapidly accumulate on Sunday morning, reaching three to six cm per hour at peak intensity.

Environment Canada warns that blowing snow could reduce visibility, making travel dangerous. Officials encourage postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. The Niagara Peninsula may also experience freezing rain on Sunday morning.

GO Transit Adjustments

Metrolinx has modified GO Transit schedules in anticipation of the storm:

• Lakeshore West Line: Trains will run every 30 minutes between Union Station and Oakville GO. Trains will not start or end in Oakville.
• Lakeshore East Line: Trains will run every 30 minutes between Union Station and Oshawa GO.
• Kitchener Line: Four additional Kitchener trains will operate on Saturday to accommodate students traveling for reading week.
• GO Bus routes will follow the regular Saturday schedule, but delays are expected due to road conditions.

Snow Removal Efforts

Toronto’s road crews have been clearing snow around the clock since Wednesday’s storm, which left nearly 20 cm of snow in the city. Officials say they are prepared for the incoming storm, but removal will take time.

Barbara Gray, general manager of Toronto’s transportation services, said the city remains in a major snowstorm condition, meaning clearing efforts will continue beyond the weekend depending on snowfall totals.

Parking Restrictions and Enforcement

Toronto has extended its major snowstorm condition declaration, meaning parking bans on designated snow routes remain in effect. This allows plows to clear streets faster.

• 1,500 parking tickets have been issued since the ban started Wednesday.
• The city has towed at least 10 vehicles to facilitate snow clearing.

Airport and Flight Disruptions

Toronto Pearson International Airport expects 128,000 travelers on over 900 flights on Saturday. Officials are monitoring weather conditions and flight delays are possible.

Warming Centers Open Across the City

To support residents affected by the storm, six warming centers will be open across Toronto:

• 136 Spadina Rd. (south of Dupont St.)
• 81 Elizabeth St. (near City Hall)
• 12 Holmes Ave. (south of Finch Ave. E.)
• 885 Scarborough Golf Club Rd. (south of Ellesmere Rd.)
• Metro Hall, 55 John St. (north of Wellington St. W.)
• Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre (opening Saturday at 5 p.m.)

The Cecil Community Centre warming center will remain closed as it serves as a voting location for the upcoming provincial election.

What’s Next?

With below-zero temperatures expected next week, snow will likely remain on the ground. City officials urge patience as crews continue snow-clearing operations. Residents should stay updated on weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during peak snowfall periods.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-more-snow-forecast-winter-storm-1.7459560 
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/gta-schools-and-campuses-close
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/canada-braces-for-major-winter-storm