As southern Ontario grapples with significant snowfall, the City of Toronto has enacted major snowstorm conditions and significant weather event declarations. These declarations came into effect at 5 p.m. on Thursday and are part of a newly modernized snowstorm response plan designed to mobilize additional resources for weather-related challenges.
In line with this plan, Toronto's municipal emergency operations centre has been activated to synchronize efforts and communications among various departments. The city's actions include the deployment of up to 200 additional personnel and the mobilization of 75 pieces of equipment to aid in snow clearing, inspections, and towing operations.
According to a statement from the City of Toronto, snow removal will commence timely after the snowfall has halted, following the completion of planned plowing operations. The major snowstorm condition also brings about a parking prohibition on designated snow routes. This strategic decision is made to facilitate the clearing of snow piles, which can obstruct traffic flow, hinder pedestrian movement, and interfere with sightlines critical for emergency services.
In response to the challenges posed by the snowstorm, City officials have emphasized the importance of "enhanced coordination" with the Toronto Police Service. This collaborative approach will assist in removing vehicles parked on designated snow routes as the city contemplates temporary parking solutions. Notably, violators can face fines of up to $500, in addition to any towing fees incurred.
Under the declaration of a significant weather event, the municipality is permitted to bypass certain service level standards as established by the Ontario government. This exemption is particularly relevant due to the increased snowfall experienced, which has extended the time required to clear city roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes efficiently. Peak conditions were reported on Thursday morning, which led to a partial closure of the Don Valley Parkway caused by accumulated snow and icy conditions.
Both weather declarations were prompted by the accumulation of snow on Wednesday and Thursday, with more snow forecasted over the weekend. As of Thursday afternoon, unofficial measurement at Toronto Pearson International Airport recorded approximately 22 centimetres of snow from this weather system. Meteorologists are predicting additional snowfall, potentially totaling up to 35 centimetres for specific regions, particularly to the north and east of Toronto, including areas like Scarborough, York Region, and Durham Region.
As the snowfall continues, Torontonians should prepare for more accumulation, with forecasts indicating three to six centimetres on Friday around midday, followed by another centimetre expected on Saturday. However, milder temperatures are anticipated during the day, which may help alleviate some of the snow build-up.
City officials have stated that the declarations will be rescinded "as soon as roadways are deemed safe," indicating a commitment to restoring normalcy in transportation as soon as possible. For ongoing updates regarding plowing and salting operations across Toronto, residents can track progress on the city's official website.
