The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is grappling with the impact of severe winter weather as schools across the region remain closed due to heavy snowfalls. On Thursday, February 13, 2025, major school boards, including the Toronto District School Board, the Toronto Catholic District School Board, and several others, announced closures as they faced snowfall amounts ranging from 15 to 40 centimeters.
The adverse weather, which began late Wednesday, has also led to bus cancellations, making transportation challenging for those trying to navigate the snowy conditions. Specifically, the District School Board of Niagara and the Niagara Catholic District School Board remained open but canceled bus services.
This series of closures is not isolated, with many school boards like the Peel District School Board, Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, and others across the York and Durham regions taking similar measures. The closures have impacted thousands of students and working families who rely on school services.
Environment Canada had issued snowfall and winter storm warnings prior to the storm, anticipating widespread disruption. Unfortunately, the storm's severity led to dangerous road conditions affecting both travel and safety.
City officials responded decisively, declaring a 'major snow storm condition' shortly after the snowfall began. This declaration entails several measures, including the prohibition of parking on designated snow routes, aimed at facilitating snow removal and ensuring roads remain navigable.
“The parking ban will remain in place until the snow is cleared,” reported Toronto police, stressing the necessity of maintaining access for snow removal crews.
Vincent Sferrazza, director for transportation services, addressed the challenges cities face during such severe winter weather. “When you get such a significant amount of snow, and also the temperatures will be cold, you will not have the melting benefit. It will stick around,” he noted, indicating the city's need to shift focus toward snow removal operations scheduled for early next week.
The anticipated effort for snow removal, which the city rarely undertakes due to extreme conditions, is set for Monday following the storm. Sferrazza explained, “So as a result, we will have to transition to removal of snow and that's likely going to happen early next week.”
Residents have been advised to remain cautious and monitor weather updates as another snowstorm is forecasted to potentially arrive over the weekend, creating additional challenges for recovery efforts and daily life.
The widespread closures and transport cancellations led to heightened awareness of winter preparedness among residents. Many were seen stocking up on essentials, hunkering down at home, and finding alternative arrangements for children now at home due to school closures.
This situation not only highlights the impact of winter storms on education and transport but also reflects the city and residents’ resilience as they adapt to challenging conditions. Keeping communication lines open, the city intends to provide updates about weather changes and how they affect daily operations and local services.
While the storm has undoubtedly caused inconvenience for many families, it has also rekindled discussions about winter readiness and snow management strategies within urban areas prone to severe weather.
With schools set to remain closed until conditions improve, parents are left juggling their responsibilities, highlighting the importance of community support systems during these tumultuous times. The focus now shifts to ensuring roads are safe and accessible and planning for the continued management of the subsequent weather challenges on the horizon.
For concerned families, this episode serves as both a reminder and preparation for keeping safe during winter conditions, advocating for attentiveness and proactive measures amid unpredictable weather patterns.