Environment Canada has re-issued a snow squall warning for the City of Toronto and its surrounding areas, forecasting hazardous winter conditions to start the week. The alert, updated on January 19, 2026, at 1:50 PM EST, warns of sudden, intense bursts of snow and sharply falling temperatures.
Forecast Details and Immediate Impacts
Residents should brace for a 'bone-chillingly cold' Monday with the potential for rapidly accumulating snow. The weather agency indicates the city could see up to 2 centimetres of snow from the squalls, which are known for drastically reducing visibility in a matter of minutes. These conditions pose significant risks for commuters and pedestrians.
The initial warning was first published earlier the same day, at 10:13 AM EST, highlighting the volatile and changing nature of the winter system moving through southwestern Ontario. The re-issuance underscores the continued threat.
Broader Weather Context Across the Region
This localized alert for Toronto fits into a wider pattern of severe winter weather affecting parts of the province. Other reports detail blizzard conditions and blowing snow in southwestern Ontario, creating a treacherous travel corridor. The combination of squalls, high winds, and extreme cold amplifies the danger.
Meteorologist Jessica Smith provided the seven-day forecast, contextualizing this cold snap within the broader winter pattern. The sudden onset and intensity of the squalls are characteristic of lake-effect snow, driven by frigid air moving over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes.
Safety Precautions and Preparedness
Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. Key recommendations for dealing with the snow squall warning include:
- Avoid non-essential travel during periods of intense snowfall.
- If driving is necessary, be prepared for sudden whiteout conditions and icy roads.
- Ensure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle.
- Dress in layers to protect against the extreme cold accompanying the system.
This weather event serves as a stark reminder of the potent and fast-moving winter hazards that can impact the Greater Toronto Area. Residents are advised to monitor updates from Environment Canada closely and adjust their Monday plans accordingly to ensure safety.
