Residents across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are being urged to prepare for messy winter weather after Environment Canada issued a special weather statement warning of snowfall, strong winds and a risk of freezing rain on Sunday. The weather alert covers several communities across the region, including Halton Hills, Toronto and Oshawa, where snowfall totals could reach up to six centimetres as a fast-moving system moves through southern Ontario.
The national weather agency says winter conditions are expected to begin Sunday morning and gradually taper off later in the afternoon. While the storm is not expected to reach major winter storm warning levels, meteorologists say it could still cause difficult travel conditions, reduced visibility and possible localized power disruptions.
Environment Canada Issues Special Weather Statement for GTA
The weather statement issued Sunday morning highlights the potential for between two and six centimetres of snowfall across the Greater Toronto Area. Forecasters say snowfall amounts may vary significantly from one location to another depending on temperature fluctuations and precipitation intensity.
According to Environment Canada, most areas in the GTA will receive at least two centimetres of snow, while some locations could see locally higher amounts. Snowfall accumulations may be highly variable across the region as temperatures hover close to the freezing point.
The weather system will bring a mix of precipitation types, including snow and possible freezing rain, making road conditions potentially slippery throughout the day.
Snowfall and Blowing Snow May Reduce Visibility
As snowfall intensifies during the morning hours, drivers may experience reduced visibility due to periods of heavy or blowing snow. Wind-driven snow can quickly create whiteout-like conditions in open areas and on major highways, particularly outside the downtown core.
Weather officials say visibility could fluctuate throughout the day depending on wind speeds and snowfall intensity. Motorists are being advised to slow down, increase following distance and allow additional time for travel.
Even though snowfall totals are relatively modest, the combination of wind and wet snow can create challenging driving conditions across the region.
Strong Winds Up to 70 km/h Expected Across the Region
In addition to snowfall, strong easterly winds are forecast to develop across Toronto and surrounding communities. Wind gusts could reach up to 70 kilometres per hour during the day Sunday.
These powerful winds may cause snow to drift across roadways and sidewalks, further reducing visibility and making travel more difficult. The gusty winds are expected to continue overnight and could persist into Monday morning in some areas.
Blowing snow combined with strong winds can rapidly change road conditions, particularly on exposed highways or bridges.
Risk of Freezing Rain Could Create Slippery Surfaces
Forecasters are also warning about the possibility of freezing rain mixing with the snowfall across parts of the GTA. When temperatures sit close to the freezing mark, precipitation can switch between snow, rain and freezing rain, creating hazardous surfaces.
Even small amounts of freezing rain can create icy conditions on sidewalks, roads, and parking lots. Ice accumulation on tree branches and power lines may also increase the risk of localized power outages.
Environment Canada notes that while widespread ice accumulation is not expected, residents should remain cautious as conditions may change quickly.
Cold Wind Chill During the Day
Torontoâs daytime high on Sunday is expected to reach around 3°C, but strong winds will make it feel much colder. Wind chill values may make the temperature feel closer to -7°C during parts of the day.
This combination of cold wind and wet snow can make outdoor conditions uncomfortable for pedestrians and commuters.
Residents heading outside are encouraged to dress warmly and remain prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Unusual Overnight Temperature Trend
One notable aspect of the forecast is the unusual temperature pattern expected Sunday night. Instead of cooling overnight, temperatures in Toronto are forecast to gradually rise.
Environment Canada says evening temperatures around 4°C may increase to approximately 7°C by Monday morning. This warming trend could cause much of the fresh snowfall to melt or turn slushy overnight.
However, fluctuating temperatures combined with wet snow may still produce slippery patches on untreated roads and sidewalks.
Travel Difficulties and Possible Power Outages
Officials warn that travel conditions across the GTA may deteriorate during periods of heavier snowfall and strong winds. Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions before leaving and allow extra time for commuting.
Strong winds combined with wet snow or freezing rain could also lead to isolated power outages if tree branches come into contact with power lines.
Residents should secure outdoor items that could be blown around by strong gusts and stay updated on local weather conditions as the system develops.
Weather Expected to Improve by Late Sunday
The snow and freezing rain risk is expected to gradually diminish by Sunday afternoon as the weather system moves east of the region. However, windy conditions may continue overnight before calmer weather returns on Monday.
Weather patterns in March often remain unpredictable across southern Ontario, as colder air masses frequently collide with warmer systems moving north from the United States. As a result, residents may continue to see quick swings between winter and early spring conditions.
For the latest forecast updates and real-time weather tracking, residents can follow updates through Toronto weather forecasts.
For now, Toronto and surrounding GTA communities should prepare for a short but impactful round of winter weather before temperatures begin to climb again early next week.
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