The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) experienced one of its most severe winter events as major snowstorms battered the region on February 9 and 10, 2025, leading to significant disruptions across multiple sectors. Recovery efforts were initiated as over 15 cm of snow blanketed Toronto and surrounding communities, marking the largest single-day snowfall recorded since March 2023.
Environment Canada had previously issued snowfall warnings, advising residents to prepare for hazardous conditions. Significant efforts were made by local authorities and the airport to manage the aftermath of the winter blast, which was fueled by a Colorado low moving through southern Ontario. This storm brought the first major snowfall of the season, forcing many residents to dig out of their homes and vehicles.
''Snowfall totals from 10 to 15 cm fell over the weekend,'' reported The Weather Network, highlighting how the winter conditions presented challenges for commuters. The icy grip of winter led to reduced visibility and slow-moving traffic across the region, with pedestrians also facing difficulties. Major highways saw significant slowdowns due to the weather, which prompted officials to alert the public about the conditions.
At Pearson International Airport, officials noted, ''…we’re keeping an eye on another winter storm forecasted to hit Wednesday night...'' Travelers were advised to monitor their flight status as delays emerged, impacting thousands of passengers amid the chaotic weather.
Over the weekend, areas like Oakville reported up to 19 cm of snow, making it one of the hardest-hit locations. Burlington and Grimsby were not far behind, each receiving 17 cm. Other nearby towns like Kitchener and Woodstock recorded 16 cm and 15 cm respectively, contributing to the collective precipitation totals.
The storms were partially attributed to the clash of cold Arctic air from the north colliding with milder, moist air moving up from the United States, resulting in significant snowfall events for southern Ontario. Local meteorologists explained how this weather pattern was characteristic of winter storms for the region.
Residents of Southern Ontario woke up to picturesque scenes of snow-draped landscapes, but the beauty of the winter wonderland also came with its share of dangers. The heavy wet snow combined with strong winds—gusts reaching up to 60 km/h—created hazardous travel advisories. There were multiple reports of travel accidents, with local news covering incidents, including a tragic fatal vehicle pileup on Highway 11, exacerbated by lake-effect snow conditions.
''Following the largest snowfall event of the season...another storm is on the way to pack a punch for the region,'' warned CP24, alerting citizens to remain cautious as additional weather systems approached. Forecasts indicated another storm poised to arrive on February 12, expected to bring even more snowfall, prompting worries of yet another disruption.
The changing weather forecast and environmental conditions seem to suggest winter is just getting started for Southern Ontario. This upcoming storm is projected to develop from the southern U.S. and track northeastward, potentially complicate the travel conditions and public safety measures established during the previous snowstorm.
Weather experts recommended residents keep abreast of local weather alerts and road conditions before heading out during these tumultuous winter months. The chaotic interactions between cold fronts and moisture-laden air will likely continue to produce unpredictable weather patterns as the winter season progresses.
With winter still looming over the Greater Toronto Area, residents are encouraged to stay informed, exercise caution during travel, and enjoy the unique beauty of the snowy season safely. The forecasts suggest colder-than-normal temperatures are likely to dominate the months of February and March, signaling more potential snow events on the horizon as the active winter pattern persists.