Toronto and GTA Prepare for Another Winter Storm on Sunday
Residents of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area are bracing for another major winter storm expected to arrive on Sunday. Meteorological forecasts indicate that significant snowfall will impact the region, prompting concerns about travel disruptions and safety hazards. This latest weather event follows a pattern of severe winter conditions that have recently affected Ontario, including extreme cold warnings and previous snowstorms.
When Will the Snow Arrive in Toronto?
According to weather experts, the snowfall is anticipated to begin in the early morning hours on Sunday, with the heaviest precipitation occurring throughout the afternoon and evening. The exact timing may vary slightly depending on specific locations within the GTA, but most areas should expect accumulation starting before noon. The storm system is projected to move across southwestern Ontario before reaching the Toronto metropolitan area, potentially bringing several centimeters of snow that could create slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Preparations and Safety Recommendations
Local authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions ahead of the winter storm. This includes ensuring vehicles are properly equipped with winter tires, stocking emergency supplies at home, and limiting non-essential travel during the peak snowfall periods. Public works departments across the GTA are preparing snow removal equipment and salt supplies to manage the anticipated accumulation. Environment Canada is expected to issue weather advisories as the storm approaches, providing more detailed information about snowfall rates and potential wind chill factors.
Travel conditions are likely to be particularly challenging on Sunday, with potential impacts on public transportation schedules and highway safety. Commuters should check for updates from transit agencies and road authorities before venturing out. The combination of fresh snowfall and existing cold temperatures could create icy patches on sidewalks and roadways, increasing the risk of slips and falls for pedestrians.
Broader Weather Context for Ontario
This upcoming storm occurs amidst a period of unusually cold weather across much of Ontario, with some regions experiencing wind chill values approaching -30°C. The persistent cold snap has already raised concerns about frostbite risks and increased energy consumption for heating. Weather phenomena such as "exploding trees" caused by rapid freezing have been reported in some areas, highlighting the extreme nature of current winter conditions. While Sunday's storm focuses primarily on snowfall rather than extreme cold, the existing frigid temperatures may affect how the snow accumulates and how quickly it can be cleared.
Residents should monitor official weather channels for the most current forecasts and any emergency notifications. Municipal governments across the GTA typically activate extreme weather protocols when significant storms are forecast, which may include opening warming centers for vulnerable populations and adjusting garbage collection schedules. The timing of this storm on a Sunday may reduce some commuting impacts but could affect weekend activities and Monday morning travel if cleanup operations continue into the next day.
