A significant winter storm system is expected to persist through the weekend across central Ontario, with meteorologists warning that some regions could see up to 60 centimeters of snow accumulation. The prolonged weather event has prompted concerns about travel safety and potential disruptions to daily activities.
Storm Timeline and Expected Impacts
The winter weather system began affecting the region earlier this week and is forecast to continue through Sunday. Environment Canada has issued weather warnings for multiple areas, including Barrie and surrounding communities. The slow-moving nature of this storm means precipitation will fall over an extended period, increasing the potential for significant snow buildup.
Meteorologists note that snowfall rates will vary throughout the storm, with periods of intense snowfall alternating with lighter precipitation. The heaviest accumulations, potentially reaching 60 cm, are expected in higher elevation areas and regions north of Lake Simcoe. Urban centers may see slightly lower totals, but still substantial enough to cause travel difficulties.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns
The accumulating snow has already begun affecting transportation networks across the province. All northbound lanes of Highway 400 were closed at Highway 401 following a collision, illustrating the hazardous driving conditions developing across the region. Police are urging motorists to avoid non-essential travel and to exercise extreme caution if driving is necessary.
Several school boards have announced bus cancellations, and some schools may close entirely if conditions deteriorate further. Municipalities including Kitchener have declared snow events, requiring residents to remove vehicles from city streets to facilitate snow clearing operations. Pedestrian safety has also become a concern, with at least one person being transported to hospital after being struck by a vehicle in Middlesex County.
Regional Preparations and Response
Municipal governments across central Ontario are mobilizing snow removal equipment and preparing for what could be one of the first major winter weather events of the season. Road maintenance crews are on high alert, with plans to work around the clock as the storm progresses.
Residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages by charging electronic devices and having emergency supplies readily available. The extended duration of this weather system means that conditions could change rapidly, and officials emphasize the importance of monitoring updated forecasts throughout the weekend.
Environment Canada continues to update warnings and watches as the storm evolves, with particular attention to areas that could experience the highest snowfall totals. Current models suggest the system will begin to move out of the region by late Sunday, but not before leaving a significant accumulation of snow in its wake.
