Winter has returned with a vengeance to Ontario as widespread snow and hazardous travel conditions grip the province. On February 28, 2025, the arrival of an Alberta Clipper system is creating challenging situations for commuters, particularly on major highways.
Early forecasts showed some relief for southern Ontario, as the system's track shifted unexpectedly. While this change may have minimized impacts for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), it left eastern regions, including Ottawa, bracing for significant snowfall during evening commutes.
Heavy snow began moving across the province, with predictions indicating accumulations of 10 to 15 centimeters for Ottawa and surrounding areas. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), "Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow." This warning highlights the need for drivers to exercise caution on their travels.
Snowfall advisories are active across northern and eastern Ontario, affecting major routes including Highways 400, 69, 17, and the Trans-Canada Highway. Icy conditions and blowing snow led to warnings across the affected areas, with daily commutes expected to be slow and treacherous.
Travelers between Toronto and Kenora are advised to buckle up as heavy snowfall impacts visibility and road conditions. Authorities have recommended allowing extra travel time to those heading north of Barrie, where gusty winds coupled with snow could lead to conditions hazardous enough to cause accidents.
The storm's intensity varies across the region. For example, southern Ontario can expect 5 to 10 centimeters of snow during the day, particularly affecting highways leading from the GTA to Sudbury. Meanwhile, areas like Sudbury are under snow warnings with expectations of up to 15 centimeters, coupled with significant cold front shifts dropping temperatures overnight to well below freezing.
Wawa and Thunder Bay have been warned to prepare for extreme conditions as well. Forecasts predict accumulations reaching up to 25 centimeters along stretches of Highway 17 from Thunder Bay to Kenora, making this area one of the most impacted by the storm. Frigid wind chills are expected overnight, dipping near -28°C, urging travelers to stay warm and safe.
Despite the brief respite of spring-like weather earlier this week, the 2025 winter has illustrated its stubbornness. With more snow anticipated over the next few days, the trend is certainly indicating we’re not done with winter just yet. Just last week, Toronto observed the snowiest February on record, surpassing figures from previous years.
Authorities remind citizens to stay updated with local weather alerts and road conditions with services such as Ontario 511. The weekend is expected to bring continued challenges for commuters, with temperatures taking another plunge. Observers suggest potential lake-effect snow along certain regions, especially near Lake Huron, could add up to another 5 to 10 centimeters to already accumulating totals.
While drivers navigate the snowy streets of southern Ontario, extra caution is needed for travelers heading toward the north. Given the treacherous nature of current highways, people are urged to avoid unnecessary travel when possible and to prepare adequately for road conditions.
For those who must travel, it is recommended to equip vehicles with winter emergency kits, including blankets, extra clothing, food, and flashlights. Keeping tanks filled with gas and ensuring all vehicles are well-maintained for winter conditions is also deemed wise.
It has been emphasized across various channels not to underestimate the storm’s potential impact and many remain hopeful for the end of this cold stretch as forecasts hint at March transitioning to warmer temperatures. Meanwhile, officials continue monitoring the weather for updates, reminding Ontarians to stay safe through this winter storm.