Residents across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area are being warned to prepare for potential power disruptions as a bout of strong, gusty winds sweeps through the region on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
Weather Statement Issued for the Region
A special weather statement has been issued for the GTA, forecasting powerful winds throughout the day. The hazardous conditions follow a period of precipitation that saw snowfall transition into freezing rain, complicating travel and infrastructure stability.
The primary concern for utility companies and emergency officials is the heightened risk of widespread power outages. High winds can bring down tree limbs and power lines, especially when combined with the weight of recent freezing rain on branches.
Travel and Transportation Impacts
The severe weather is already causing ripple effects across the transportation network. Flight activity at Toronto Pearson International Airport has been impacted by the conditions, leading to delays and cancellations. Travellers are strongly advised to check their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport.
While the wind is the headline concern for Tuesday, the preceding weather pattern involved snow turning to freezing rain, which likely left a glaze of ice on surfaces. This creates additional hazards for pedestrians and drivers, even after precipitation ends.
Preparedness and Safety Advice
Authorities recommend that residents take proactive steps to ensure their safety. This includes securing loose outdoor items, having emergency kits ready with flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food, and ensuring mobile devices are fully charged in case of a prolonged outage.
It is also crucial to stay updated on the latest forecasts and any outage maps provided by local utilities like Toronto Hydro. Drivers should exercise extra caution, particularly in areas prone to falling branches or debris.
The weather event on December 23 serves as a reminder of the disruptive potential of winter storms in Southern Ontario, combining multiple elements—snow, ice, and wind—to challenge the region's infrastructure.
