Residents in regions north of Toronto are bracing for a significant winter storm set to deliver heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions starting Thursday and continuing through the weekend.
Storm Details and Expected Impact
Environment Canada has issued a weather advisory warning that parts of York and Durham regions, extending north to Georgian Bay, will be hit with snowfall amounts of 30 to 50 cm. Some areas could see even higher accumulations. The federal weather agency highlighted that near-zero visibility is expected at times due to heavy snow and local blowing snow.
The most intense snowfall is forecast to occur between Thursday night and Friday night. The system is expected to bring lake effect snow off Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, which will intensify Thursday morning and shift throughout the day before settling in by the evening.
Widespread Travel Disruptions and Safety Warnings
The combination of heavy snow and strong winds is predicted to make travel extremely hazardous. Environment Canada has stated that road closures are a distinct possibility. Non-essential travel and outdoor activities should be avoided during the peak of the storm.
The advisory also warns residents to prepare for potential disruptions to transportation, essential services, and utilities. Southern parts of Durham Region, including Pickering and Oshawa, are still expected to receive significant snow, with amounts possibly exceeding 15 cm.
Which Areas Will Be Spared?
While communities to the north prepare for a major snow event, it appears that the City of Toronto, along with Peel Region, Oakville, and Burlington, will largely avoid the worst of the wintry mess.
For Toronto, a special weather statement indicates that lake effect snow is possible on Thursday, but forecasters do not anticipate significant accumulation. Gusty westerly winds from Wednesday are expected to taper off, though breezy conditions will likely persist through Friday.
