Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, warning drivers of hazardous conditions due to fresh snowfall expected Tuesday morning. The advisory specifically covers Toronto, York, and Durham regions, with a separate snow squall warning in effect for areas north and west of Orangeville extending to Georgian Bay.
Hazardous Driving Conditions Expected
Motorists should expect hazardous winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly, Environment Canada stated in its advisory. The agency specifically warned that there may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic throughout the morning commute.
The forecast for the Greater Toronto Area calls for light snow with bursts of heavy snow throughout the morning hours. Conditions are expected to improve by afternoon with a mix of sun and clouds and a chance of either snow or rain. Environment Canada advised drivers that if visibility is reduced while driving, they should slow down, watch for tail lights ahead, and be prepared to stop.
Snow Squall Warning North of Toronto
Meanwhile, a more severe snow squall warning was issued for regions north and west of Orangeville and up to Georgian Bay for Tuesday. Motorists in these areas should expect additional snowfall amounts of 5 cm to 15 cm, with locally higher amounts possible under the heaviest snow bands.
Lake effect snow off Georgian Bay will continue to affect the region throughout the day, with snowfall rates of up to 5 cm per hour possible under the most intense bands. Environment Canada cautioned that travel will likely be hazardous with visibility suddenly reduced to near zero at times. Roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow.
Temperature Outlook and Safety Recommendations
In Toronto, the temperature is expected to rise to 3C Tuesday afternoon, though the wind chill will make it feel below freezing throughout the day. Scattered flurries are expected to continue this evening and into the overnight hours before turning to rain Wednesday afternoon as temperatures gradually warm up to the low single digits.
Drivers are being strongly cautioned to postpone non-essential travel and limit outdoor activities until conditions improve in affected areas. Environment Canada recommends that all motorists check the province's latest travel information throughout the day for updates on road conditions and further advisories.
