Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Toronto and several surrounding regions in anticipation of significant snow and strong winds expected on Sunday. This weather system is currently developing in Southwestern Ontario, bringing with it widespread snowfall amounts predicted to range from 5 to 10 centimeters. Such conditions could create challenging travel scenarios for residents and visitors alike.
According to CityNews Meteorologist Chris Potter, while the forecast does not indicate intense snowfall, the accumulation is expected to be widespread. “It briefly switches to showers midday […] then clears off towards the East,” Potter noted. This transitional weather could add some complexity to daily commutes and outdoor activities.
The weather statement encompasses parts of Peel, Halton, and Niagara regions, as well as Hamilton. Moreover, the national weather agency has warned that most areas could experience a mix or transition from snow to rain on Sunday morning. Expected strong southwest winds could gust between 60 to 70 kilometers per hour, further complicating any outdoor plans or travel.
“If the precipitation remains as snow, then accumulations may exceed 10 cm," cautions Environment Canada. They also indicated that local utility outages are a possibility due to the severe weather conditions. Roadways and walkways will likely become difficult to navigate, urging residents to exercise caution when traveling.
The temperature forecast for Toronto anticipates a high of 3 degrees Celsius and a low of -6 degrees Celsius on Sunday. These temperatures, coupled with the expected precipitation, will contribute to the hazardous conditions throughout the day.
In addition, areas located to the north and east of Toronto continue to remain under a snowfall warning. Environment Canada projects that snowfall amounts in these places could reach 10 centimeters, with potential accumulations ranging from 15 to 20 centimeters in specific regions such as Richmond Hill, Markham, Newmarket, and Georgina. This possibility of higher accumulation emphasizes the importance of staying informed and prepared for the upcoming winter weather conditions.
The special weather statement serves as a crucial reminder for individuals in affected areas to remain cautious and to plan ahead for potential disruptions caused by the expected snow and wind conditions. It is advisable to check local updates and to consider necessary precautions for travel and outdoor activities during this period.
