Ontario residents are bracing for yet another hefty snowfall as the province grapples with the effects of recent snowstorms, significantly impacting plans for the Family Day weekend, which falls on February 20 this year. According to meteorologist Anthony Farnell at Global News, anticipation is building around this winter weather event, as he stated, "We’ve got more snow on the way." After already facing substantial snowfall earlier this month, Ontarians are prepared for additional flurries arriving this weekend.
This past week, southern Ontario, particularly the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), experienced one of the heaviest snowfalls of the season. Reports indicated accumulations of approximately 26 cm at Toronto Pearson International Airport alone. The storm prompted city officials to suspend school, close community centers, and issue parking bans to aid snow removal (Global News). With snowy conditions leading to over 100 traffic-related incidents reported by Toronto police, it is evident this winter has been challenging for local authorities and residents alike.
The forecast for Family Day weekend predicts substantial amounts of snow, with estimates ranging from 15 cm to 30 cm, depending on the area. The snow is expected to begin early on Saturday and escalate throughout the day before transitioning to heavier snow reserves overnight. Farnell predicts, "Travel will likely become very difficult with blowing snow," as conditions worsen, especially on Sunday when more significant systems roll through.
The Weather Network provides detailed expectations for Saturday, anticipating light snow accumulating initially before intensifying as the day progresses. Areas like Toronto and southern Ontario will bear the brunt of these conditions, with up to 25 cm expected by Monday morning, particularly impacting eastern Ontario where snowfall could reach 50 cm. Residents are being warned to prepare for hazardous traveling conditions as the storm causes snow rates to climb to 2 cm—3 cm per hour at the peak of its intensity.
City officials are making preparations prior to the storm by allocating resources for snow removal efforts as soon as the snow begins to fall. "Please be patient, we’ll be there," stated Barbara Gray, general manager of city transportation services. The city has already cleared the equivalent of approximately 60,000 kilometers of roadway since the previous storm. Community safety remains the focus as officials aim to keep roadways clear.
Canada Post has also been affected, as they issued suspensions of deliveries throughout the province for safety and service delays. With notifications being sent out, the postal service emphasized this precaution to deal with the inclement weather by stating they had "suspended delivery and collection of mail on Thursday," and advising customers of possible delays.
The evidence of the snow's impact was clear even after the previous storm, as Toronto residents awoke to extensive snow drifts and blizzard-like conditions, prompting many to stay indoors and avoid the treacherous roads. Municipal advisories are urging citizens to reconsider travel plans during peak storm hours on both Saturday and Sunday, as the conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly.
Travelers flying through Pearson airport have been advised to stay updated with flight status, especially considering the 100 flight delays and cancellations the airport endured earlier this week due to the relentless weather. With additional substantial snowfall looming, passengers should remain vigilant for updates and possible rescheduling of their flights.
By Monday, Ontarians can expect frigid Arctic air spilling over the region, bringing temperatures to well below freezing. Daytime highs will struggle to rise above -2°C with wind chills making it feel significantly colder. Traveling after the snowstorm will likely result in hazardous conditions due to blowing snow and reduced visibility as schools and workplaces reopen, and residents try to resume normal activities.
Adverse weather conditions over Family Day weekend remind Ontarians of the ensuing unpredictability of winter and the continuous need for preparation and vigilance. The balanced three-day forecast of snow, followed by freezing temperatures, poses challenges to local communities as they navigate the aftermath of another substantial weather event. Keeping safety as the priority, experts advise residents to stay alerted to local announcements and prepared for the upcoming Arctic air blast.