Winter Weather Advisory Hits GTA, Affecting Travel and Commuting

Winter Weather Advisory Hits GTA Affecting Travel and Commuting

Winter Weather Advisory Hits GTA, Affecting Travel and Commuting

Over the weekend, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) was hit hard with a significant snowstorm, and now the region is facing more weather-related challenges. Environment Canada issued a “winter weather travel advisory” for several parts of the GTA, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Oshawa, and Newmarket. This advisory, which went into effect overnight, warned residents about hazardous travel conditions due to ongoing snow squalls and extreme cold temperatures.

The snowstorm that rolled through the GTA brought with it several layers of snowfall, some heavier than others. Environment Canada’s late afternoon advisory highlighted that snow could fall heavily in some regions, with local amounts reaching anywhere from 4 to 8 centimeters. In northern parts of the GTA, such as Newmarket and Georgina, more snow was expected, with totals potentially climbing to 10 centimeters in some areas.

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As the storm progressed, drivers were urged to be cautious, particularly during rush hour. Snow and reduced visibility were expected to make commuting treacherous, with a forecast of blowing snow and icy roads creating dangerous conditions on highways and local streets. The advisory emphasized the importance of adjusting driving speed according to the conditions, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, and being ready to stop in case of sudden changes in visibility.

The bitterly cold temperatures accompanying the snowstorm made the situation even more challenging. A low of -12°C was forecast for the overnight period, with temperatures not expected to rise above -6°C on Tuesday. These extreme cold conditions compounded the risks, as wind chills added an additional layer of discomfort and potential health hazards.

This winter storm, which left many residents scrambling to dig out their cars and clear their driveways, served as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change in the winter months. While some areas of the GTA saw up to 50 centimeters of snow, others faced strong winds and significant reductions in visibility, making it harder for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Environment Canada’s advisory warned that the snow and cold conditions could persist throughout the day, particularly affecting travel across the region. By late Tuesday, the snow squalls were expected to ease, but the damage to road conditions and the potential delays to services, like public transit and flights, were already taking a toll. Commuters, especially those using Toronto’s TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), were urged to check for delays and cancellations, as disruptions were highly probable.

So, while the snow may have stopped in some areas, the lingering effects of this winter weather event are expected to be felt throughout the GTA. With winter continuing to assert its dominance, drivers, commuters, and residents should remain alert, stay prepared, and monitor local weather updates for any changes that may affect their safety.

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