Toronto Braces for Major Winter Storm With Freezing Rain and Heavy Snow
Environment Canada has issued warnings for the Greater Toronto Area as a significant winter storm system is expected to barrel through the region overnight into Wednesday, bringing what forecasters are calling a "buffet of weather types."
What to Expect
The storm will arrive in phases. In the Toronto area, rain mixed with freezing rain is expected to begin around 4 a.m. Wednesday, making early morning commutes particularly treacherous. As temperatures drop through the day, the precipitation will transition to heavy snow, with some areas potentially seeing upwards of 15 centimetres by the time the system moves through.
Commuter Impact
The combination of freezing rain and snow is expected to create hazardous conditions on roads, sidewalks, and transit routes across the GTA. The City of Toronto has pre-positioned salt trucks and plows, and the TTC is preparing contingency plans for potential service disruptions.
Commuters are being advised to give themselves extra travel time, work from home if possible, and avoid unnecessary trips during the worst of the storm.
School and Service Disruptions
Several school boards across the GTA are monitoring conditions and may issue closures or move to remote learning. Parents are advised to check their school board's website and social media channels early Wednesday morning for updates.
How This Winter Compares
This February storm comes during what has been a relatively mild winter for Toronto. After a December and January that saw below-average snowfall, this system is a stark reminder that winter in the city can still pack a punch.
The last comparable storm hit the GTA in late January 2025, when a combination of ice and snow brought transit to a standstill and left thousands without power.
Stay Safe
Toronto's Office of Emergency Management is reminding residents to:
- Keep phones charged in case of power outages
- Avoid driving during freezing rain if possible
- Clear snow from walkways and fire hydrants
- Check on elderly neighbours and those living alone
The storm is expected to taper off by Wednesday evening, with clear skies and colder temperatures returning Thursday. But between now and then, Toronto is in for a rough ride.
