Toronto Faces Heavy Snow After Freezing Rain Alert
Toronto is bracing for severe winter weather, with a freezing rain alert in effect, according to Environment Canada. As it transitions to heavy snowfall, school boards across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have canceled bus services.
Weather Warnings and Expected Conditions
A special weather statement predicts that Toronto could receive snowfall of two to five centimetres within an hour. This accumulation may lead to significantly reduced visibility and challenging navigation for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
- Freezing Rain Warning: A yellow warning had previously been issued for the region.
- Road Conditions: Slick and dangerous roads were reported during the afternoon commute on Tuesday.
- Accident Reports: Multiple accidents occurred on highways and local roads due to icy conditions.
Forecast Changes
Environment Canada meteorologist Steven Flisfeder noted that the freezing rain is likely to impact the northern parts of the GTA more severely. He explained that regions north of Highway 401 should prepare for the worst conditions, while areas closer to Lake Ontario may experience rain.
Ice accretion is expected to range from one to five millimetres, which poses a risk of slips and falls. On the brighter side, the risk of freezing rain should diminish later in the evening.
Impact on Community Services
Due to the forecasted weather, the City of Vaughan has declared a “significant weather event.” This status indicates that the conditions could pose significant dangers for highway users within the municipality.
The Vaughan Public Libraries and community centers are expected to remain open, with scheduled programs continuing as planned. Residents are advised to stay updated on any potential closures or cancellations as the situation evolves.
City Preparedness
Vaughan city officials warned that clearing roads, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes may take longer than usual due to the anticipated weather conditions. The city will monitor forecasts and adjust operational decisions accordingly.
