Freezing rain warnings have been issued for multiple regions across southern Ontario, including Durham and York, as a significant ice storm approaches this weekend. Environment Canada has alerted residents to prepare for hazardous conditions, with forecasts predicting up to 10 mm of ice accretion in some areas.
The storm is expected to begin on the evening of March 28, 2025, and continue through the morning of March 30, 2025. According to Environment Canada, rain will start in the late afternoon before transitioning into freezing rain, which could lead to dangerous travel conditions and widespread power outages.
Jill Taylor, a meteorologist with 680 NewsRadio, emphasized that the storm's severity will depend on temperature fluctuations, particularly in the Toronto area. "Morning lows will be near or just above freezing for the Toronto area, and it may stay as all rain for Toronto," she noted. However, freezing rain warnings may still be issued for Toronto and surrounding areas.
As the storm approaches, local municipalities are taking precautions. The City of Kingston has declared a significant weather event, advising residents to exercise caution as winter maintenance services may not meet usual standards due to the anticipated freezing rain. Kingston Transit has also activated its Snow Plan network to ensure safety during the storm.
In addition to Kingston, the Town of Greater Napanee, South Frontenac Township, and Loyalist Township have all declared significant weather events. These declarations indicate that the municipalities may struggle to maintain road safety during the storm, and residents are advised to be mindful of the conditions.
Environment Canada warns that the freezing rain could lead to ice build-up on surfaces, resulting in slippery roads and potential power outages. The agency has urged residents to postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve. The forecast suggests that the freezing rain may ease temporarily on March 29, before transitioning to rain on March 30.
In eastern Ontario, a major ice storm is also expected to impact communities ranging from Bancroft to Belleville and Brockville. This storm is anticipated to be at its most severe on the night of March 28, with forecasters predicting one to two centimeters of ice accumulation in some areas, and up to 15 mm in others.
Peter Kimbell, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada, described the upcoming weather as a "real rollercoaster," highlighting the unpredictability of the storm's impact. Kingston, along with other areas, is preparing for both freezing rain and heavy snowfall, with some regions expecting 10 to 20 cm of snow followed by up to a centimeter of freezing rain.
As the storm approaches, Kingston and surrounding areas have implemented emergency preparedness measures. Public Safety Canada has recommended that residents prepare emergency kits with essential supplies, including drinking water, food, and first aid items.
"Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve," the freezing rain warning states. In light of the storm's potential impact, Hydro One and other utility providers have also advised residents to review emergency preparedness measures on their websites.
The infamous 1998 ice storm, which brought more than eight centimeters of ice to Ottawa, serves as a benchmark for the potential severity of this weekend's weather event. While the current storm is not expected to reach those levels, the risk of power outages and dangerous travel conditions remains significant.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news and weather updates. The City of Kingston has advised that its winter parking ban is in effect, prohibiting on-street parking overnight to facilitate snow removal and ensure safety on the roads.
In summary, as southern Ontario braces for a major ice storm this weekend, residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions. With warnings issued for freezing rain and significant ice accumulation, local authorities are taking steps to ensure public safety and provide residents with the necessary information to navigate the storm.
