Winter Weather Disruptions: Closures and Cancellations Sweep Ontario Region
As a severe cold snap tightens its grip on Ontario, numerous cancellations and closures have been announced across the region for Friday, January 23, 2026. The bitter cold, with wind chills plunging to -30 degrees Celsius in some areas, has prompted safety measures and operational changes affecting schools, transportation, and public services.
School and Transportation Impacts
Multiple school boards have announced closures, and bus services have been cancelled due to hazardous road conditions and extreme temperatures. Environment Canada has issued warnings for the region, forecasting dangerous wind chills and the potential for significant snow squalls that could deposit up to 30 centimetres of snow in localized areas. These conditions make travel perilous, leading to the suspension of many school-related activities to ensure student and staff safety.
Community Response and Warming Centres
In response to the frigid weather, several municipalities have opened warming centres to provide refuge for vulnerable residents. These facilities offer a critical reprieve from the cold, especially for those experiencing homelessness or without adequate heating. The openings underscore the community's efforts to mitigate the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to such extreme temperatures, which can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
Broader Weather Context and Forecast
The current cold wave is part of a larger pattern affecting much of Canada, with bone-chilling warnings sweeping the country and forecasting lows near -50 degrees Celsius in some regions. In Toronto, the bitter cold continues ahead of what meteorologists predict could be another major snowstorm on Sunday. This persistent winter weather highlights the challenges faced by communities in adapting to and managing severe seasonal conditions.
Safety Reminders and Precautions
Authorities are urging residents to take precautions during this extreme weather event. Recommendations include limiting outdoor exposure, dressing in layers, and checking on elderly or isolated neighbours. Additionally, drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution on roads, as collisions and incidents, such as an impaired driver getting stuck on a guardrail on Highway 11, have been reported due to the treacherous conditions.
As the region braces for continued cold and potential snowfall, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local updates and heed official warnings to ensure their safety during this challenging winter period.
