Winter Storm Watch Issued: Up to 15 cm Snow Expected in GTA
Toronto and its surrounding areas are bracing for significant snowfall, with a winter storm watch issued by Environment Canada. The federal weather agency has alerted residents to prepare for adverse conditions starting Wednesday.
Weather Advisory Details
A yellow weather watch has been issued for municipalities located north of Vaughan, west of Milton, and east of Scarborough. Meanwhile, a broader alert covers most of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), highlighting the potential impact of an incoming low-pressure system.
Expected Snowfall and Freezing Rain
The forecast indicates that snowfall will commence in the morning, with northern regions like Richmond Hill and Markham anticipating up to 15 centimeters of snow. In contrast, cities such as Toronto and Hamilton are expected to receive around five centimeters.
- Richmond Hill: Up to 15 cm of snow
- Markham: Up to 15 cm of snow
- Toronto: Up to 5 cm of snow
- Hamilton: Up to 5 cm of snow
In addition to snow, residents may also experience several hours of freezing rain. Ice build-up of approximately two to five millimeters is likely, which could result in slippery roads and sidewalks.
Precautions and Travel Advisory
Environment Canada advises locals to allow extra travel time, as visibility could drop to near zero at times throughout the day. The challenging conditions are expected to persist into the evening on Wednesday.
Upcoming Weather Conditions
After the snowfall, the weather on Thursday will offer a brief break with cloudy skies and a high of 1°C. However, forecasts for Friday suggest a 70 percent chance of rain or snow, and a 40 percent likelihood of flurries on Saturday.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and make necessary preparations for the challenging weather ahead.