A major winter storm wreaked havoc across eastern Canada, blanketing cities like Ottawa, Toronto, and Montreal with significant snowfall and disrupting travel plans. The storm hit hardest on Wednesday night, continuing through Thursday, with Ottawa experiencing its largest single snowfall since January 2022, as 32 centimeters of snow fell by Thursday afternoon, slightly below forecasts predicting up to 40 centimeters.
According to Environment Canada, the storm caused delays and disruptions at the Ottawa International Airport, which canceled numerous flights due to severe conditions. Commuters faced delays across light rail transit systems, with OC Transpo's Line 1 particularly affected by snow accumulation on tracks, leading to trains operating on only one track between Tremblay and Hurdman stations.
Officials declared the weather event significant, encouraging the public to remain indoors if possible. Early Thursday morning, OC Transpo general manager Renée Amilcar noted, "We expect conditions will fluctuate throughout the day" as crews worked to clear snow and maintain the transit systems.
Despite the hardships, some residents were gleeful about the winter wonderland. Caroline Hervochon, a Montreal resident, expressed delight at the snowfall, stating, "I love it. It’s been a long time since we had a big snowfall like this. People are super happy. It’s so beautiful." Many residents have embraced the opportunity for winter sports, with ski operators remarking on the favorable snow conditions for upcoming weekends.
Across Ontario, Toronto Pearson International Airport saw about 26 centimeters of snowfall by the afternoon, leading to significant travel disruptions—more than 50 transit stops reported outages, and public school systems announced closures. Transportation officials encouraged drivers to avoid traveling if possible.
Canada Post announced suspension of mail delivery across Ontario, citing safety concerns. A red delivery service alert was issued, indicating no deliveries for the day. Jake Gravelle from Ottawa's urban roads and parking services emphasized the continued efforts of snow-clearing teams, urging residents to exercise caution outside.
Environment Canada predicted continued snowfall, with up to 25 centimeters expected over the weekend. Meteorologists also warned of blowing snow and strong wind gusts exceeding 80 kilometers per hour, which limit visibility and make navigation treacherous.
Reacting to the storm, Jean Bouchard commented, "Over the years, probably with global warming, there is a lot less snow than before. We look forward to (snowstorms) now because there are few of them." This sentiment of nostalgia for substantial snowfalls contrasts sharply with the challenges they bring.
While the storm led to closures and delays, it also provided winter enthusiasts with the conditions needed for skiing and other activities. Ski resorts reported readiness for increased attendance due to favorable snowfall. The Quebec ski hill operators' association stated all 75 Quebec ski centers would be open for the upcoming weekend, attributing such enjoyable conditions to Thursday's storm.
Meanwhile, Atlantic Canada braced for continued snowfall and tough conditions, with schools closed for the day and warnings for heavy snow, ice pellets, and freezing rain. Forecasts for parts of New Brunswick indicated expectations of 20 to 35 centimeters of snow accumulation.
These extreme weather conditions elicited mixed responses from residents, many of whom approached the inconvenience with good humor. Barbara Wunderlich from Indiana expressed positivity, saying, "We're just gonna slide around on our feet," showcasing the community's resilience amid Mother Nature's winter grip.
Travelers throughout the region are advised to keep abreast of flight status and be prepared for hazardous conditions. The city of Ottawa has encouraged residents to remain mindful of snow removal equipment and to maintain safe distances from plowing vehicles.
With another storm looming, snow-shovelers and transit systems are gearing up for more challenges. The winds should ease, but temperatures will dip significantly, sending chills down spines as forecasts predict lows between minus 17 and minus 19 degrees Celsius early next week. Yet, for some, the winter season holds its magic as people venture out equipped with skis, sleds, and snowy spirits, ready to tackle whatever the elements bring.
This report demonstrates how winter storms, though difficult at times, can also be moments of joy, recreation, and communal effort, emphasizing the duality of nature's impact on urban life.