Toronto and the surrounding regions of eastern Canada have been significantly impacted by severe winter storms over the past weekend, leading to widespread disruptions at major airports and public transit systems. The storm, which began on the evening of February 15, 2025, dumped up to 60 centimeters of snow across the area, causing chaos for travelers and commuters alike.
At Toronto Pearson International Airport, the country’s busiest airport, over 400 flights were delayed, with another 300 flights canceled as ground crews battled the elements. Erica Vella, spokesperson for CBC, reported, "More than 160 pieces of equipment deployed" for effective snow removal efforts at the airport. Even with these measures, Vella noted, "the vast majority of flights continue [with or without delay]." This intense weather marked one of the busiest travel weekends this season, resulting from the accumulation of several storms patterned by broader weather phenomena.
Beyond Pearson, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport faced its own set of challenges. This smaller airport with only one usable runway was particularly affected, as nearly half of its scheduled flights were grounded—37 cancellations out of 100 flights—as preemptive changes to flight schedules were made by airlines to address the deteriorated travel conditions.
The weather chaos extended to ground transportation. Ontario's Ministry of Transportation reported severe traffic disruptions across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). There were nearly 200 vehicle collisions reported on highways and 150 vehicles stuck due to heavy snow conditions. A Toronto resident aptly remarked, "Everywhere's kind of snowed. It's been a few years since we got this much snow." This highlights the magnitude of the storm’s impact on daily life during the weekend.
The severity of the snowstorm this season can be linked to the La Niña phenomenon. This climatic condition brought cooler water surface temperatures across the Pacific and rendered colder, stormier weather to the Great Lakes region. Meteorologist Brad Rousseau noted, "This storm is nothing out of the ordinary for this time of year. Nevertheless, the amount of snow we have seen is significantly above normal for February." Indeed, Toronto has already logged about 67 centimeters of snow this month, far exceeding the average of 28 centimeters.
Public transportation was also hit hard by winter weather. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) adjusted numerous services, expressing difficulties with bus routes and subway lines due to heavy as snow blanketed the city. With streets clogged and transit delays imminent, the TTC warned riders to expect longer wait times. Snow-covered streetcar tracks led to significant detours, underscoring how deeply intertwined travel and weather can become.
Officials reiterated the need for caution, with Environment Canada advising travelers of potentially hazardous conditions. The weather agency stated, "Travel will still be hazardous because of rapid accumulating snow and significantly reduced visibility." With more snow expected even after the storm, the possibility for continued disruption lingered.
Snow removal efforts were already being planned, with the city expecting to commence major operations early the following week. Such logistics were necessary to manage the aftermath of the storm and keep roads clear for remaining travel. The city had opened additional warming centers and advised residents to check official routes and transit schedules before venturing out.
Looking beyond the immediate fallout, forecasts indicated the arrival of yet another significant weather shift. Following the snowfall, extreme cold temperatures were predicted, with lows reaching -15 degrees Celsius. This potentially dangerous weather combination of cold and snow indicates the need for continuous vigilance among residents as the region strives to return to normalcy.
It captures not only the realities of the weekend’s winter weather but also the broader patterns at play due to climate change and the challenges adapting to these severe conditions can present. With the region experiencing the largest snowstorm seen in years, residents and officials are asked to remain prepared for tougher conditions as the winter season continues.