As southern Ontario braces for a significant spring ice storm, Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement alerting residents to the potential for freezing rain and icy conditions starting Friday evening. The storm is expected to bring between 3 mm and 20 mm of freezing rain, with the worst conditions forecasted for areas north of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
On Friday, March 28, 2025, temperatures in southern Ontario will hover around 3 degrees Celsius, but with wind chill, it will feel more like -3 degrees Celsius. Rain is expected during the day, transitioning to freezing rain in the evening as temperatures dip closer to the freezing mark. The agency warns that this could lead to hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages.
According to the statement, Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Burlington, Oshawa, Guelph, and Halton could see ice accumulation of 3 mm to 5 mm. However, areas north of the GTA may experience ice build-up ranging from 5 mm to 15 mm, with some regions potentially receiving up to 20 mm of freezing rain.
As the storm progresses, residents should be prepared for a second round of freezing rain expected on Saturday night, March 29, into Sunday morning, March 30, as temperatures are predicted to fall below the freezing point. Environment Canada has advised that this could lead to additional ice accretion of 3 mm to 5 mm.
The potential impacts of this storm include slippery surfaces, broken tree branches, and utility outages due to the weight of the ice. Residents are urged to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada closely and to take precautions to ensure their safety.
As the storm approaches, Ontario residents are encouraged to prepare for possible power outages and to monitor road conditions. It’s advisable to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, especially as conditions could worsen throughout the weekend.
Environment Canada continues to update its forecasts as the situation develops, and residents can report severe weather conditions via email or social media, using the hashtag #ONStorm. With the unpredictable nature of spring weather, staying informed is crucial for ensuring safety during this potentially dangerous ice storm.
This weather event serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of spring weather in Ontario, where warm temperatures can quickly turn into icy conditions. As communities prepare for the impact of the storm, many are left wondering how severe the effects will be and how long they might last.
In summary, southern Ontario faces a challenging weekend ahead with the impending ice storm. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, adhere to weather advisories, and prepare for the possibility of icy roads and power outages. With the potential for significant ice accumulation, it’s essential to prioritize safety and stay informed.
