A major winter storm is set to impact Southern Ontario beginning Wednesday evening, February 12, 2025, and lasting through Thursday, February 13, 2025. Environment Canada has issued warnings for significant snowfall, potentially exceeding 30 to 40 centimeters, with hazardous travel conditions anticipated across the region.
The storm is expected to begin earlier than initially projected, with accumulating snow beginning Wednesday afternoon, likely disrupting the evening rush hour for many commuters. "Snow will moveinto southern Ontario earlier than initially forecast, with accumulating snowfall beginning in the afternoon," reported Environment Canada. Residents are advised to prepare for deteriorated travel conditions as heavy snow is predicted throughout the night.
Areas around Lakes Erie and Ontario may experience mixed precipitation, transitioning to freezing rain late Wednesday night. Such changes can lead to dangerous icy surfaces. "Hazardous travel conditions are likely Wednesday eveninginto Thursday morning," the weather agency cautioned, emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices during this time.
Breaking it down by region, central and eastern Ontario can expect particularly challenging conditions, with intense snow rates causing significant disruptions. Reports indicate potential snowfall totals of 15 to 30 centimeters, with certain areas possibly exceeding those predictions. A heavy coating of snow could blanket Toronto, where forecasts suggest accumulations of up to 25 centimeters overnight. "Toronto could see one of the biggest snowstorms of the season when upwards of 25 centimeters of snowfall hit the city on Wednesday night and Thursday morning," said CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter.
For the Hamilton area, Environment Canada reports snowfall amounts may also exceed 15 centimeters. Motorists are urged to reconsider their travel plans and, if feasible, to delay any non-essential trips until the storm passes. A special weather statement warned, "Significant snowfall associated with a low-pressure system is likely for the area beginning Wednesday evening," contributing to the urgency for caution on the roads.
Warnings don’t just extend to travelers; residents are also facing health advisories due to icy conditions. Hamilton Health Sciences noted there had already been over 25 hip fractures reported due to slips and falls this season. Dr. Alim Pardhan, chief of emergency medicine at HHS, urged the community to take precautions during this perilous time, stating, "Take extreme caution when navigatingslippery surfaces." This epidemic of winter injuries highlights the significant hazards posed by winter weather.
The potential for lake-effect snow squalls late Thursday and Friday only compounds the challenges faced by the region following this primary winter storm. Environment Canada has indicated these squalls could produce intense snowfall rates and contribute to low visibility conditions, particularly southeast of Georgian Bay.
With the storm approaching, locals are reminded to stay updated with forecasts and heed weather warnings. Environment Canada also emphasizes the importance of preparing for unexpected power outages or emergencies, advising residents to make sure they have supplies ready, including food, water, and medical necessities.
For Southern Ontario, this winter storm signals one of the most significant events of the season, putting many communities to the test as they prepare to weather the extreme conditions. The storm itself is expected to serve as more than just a temporary inconvenience; it's also indicative of the broader, often severe weather patterns the region can experience during the winter months.
With potentially treacherous conditions looming, all residents and motorists within the affected areas should remain vigilant and prioritize safety. Hopefully, spring will arrive and soon alleviate the winter woes!