A major winter storm paralyzed much of southern Ontario on Thursday, January 15, 2026, leading to a significant collision involving a VIA Rail passenger train and a snowplow. The incident occurred as the storm dumped up to 40 centimetres of snow across the Greater Toronto Area, forcing widespread school closures, creating treacherous road conditions, and testing municipal response plans.
Storm Details and Immediate Impact
The powerful system began impacting the region in the early morning hours of January 15. Environment Canada issued warnings for heavy snow and blowing snow, with forecasts predicting accumulations of 30 to 40 centimetres for some areas. The City of Toronto, under Mayor Olivia Chow, activated its snow response, deploying an additional 100 staff members from other municipal divisions to assist with clearing operations.
The storm's intensity led to the cancellation of school buses and the closure of most schools across the GTA, granting students an unexpected snow day. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) urged drivers to avoid non-essential travel, citing extremely challenging road conditions and reduced visibility due to blowing snow.
VIA Rail Incident and Transportation Disruptions
Amid the blizzard conditions, a VIA Rail train was involved in a collision with a snowplow. While specific details on injuries or the exact location were not immediately released in the initial reports, the incident underscored the severe hazards presented by the storm. The collision added to the day's transportation chaos, which included multiple vehicle accidents, such as a car going into a guardrail on Highway 400 in Barrie.
Authorities also reported updated road closures, with sections of Highway 401 impacted near Tilbury, Ridgetown, and Comber. Municipalities like Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Wilmot officially declared "snow events" to coordinate and prioritize clearing efforts.
Broader Regional Effects and Response
The storm's reach extended beyond the GTA, affecting a wide swath of southern Ontario. Residents faced the arduous task of digging out, with one exhausted child, Carter Trozzo, gaining a new appreciation for shovelling after a long day of work. City officials cautioned that snow clearing operations are extensive and require significant time to complete safely and effectively.
Meanwhile, other provinces also grappled with severe weather. In Alberta, dozens of record-high temperatures were set on Wednesday, creating a stark contrast to Ontario's deep freeze. In Manitoba, police warned that blowing snow would likely impact visibility on roads.
Conclusion and Ongoing Updates
The winter storm of January 15, 2026, served as a significant test for infrastructure and emergency services in Ontario. The collision between the VIA Rail train and a snowplow highlighted the dangers of travel during such extreme events. As the region works to recover, officials continue to advise caution, reminding the public that the aftermath of a major snowfall requires patience and continued vigilance on roads and sidewalks.
