Toronto is set to experience its inaugural winter weather event of the season as a low-pressure system sweeps through the area, bringing a forecasted snowfall expected to impact travel significantly.

Environment Canada issued a winter weather travel advisory on Tuesday evening, warning residents of potentially treacherous driving conditions throughout the day. This morning, the city could see as much as five centimeters of snow accumulation, with flurries expected to taper off later this evening. The advisory highlights concerns about reduced visibility, suggesting that rush hour traffic, especially in urban settings, may face significant disruptions.

Live Updates:

11:30 a.m.

City officials have confirmed the readiness of 800 pieces of road-clearing equipment along with an additional 300 units specifically for sidewalks. Vincent Sferrazza, Toronto's Director of Transportation Operations, noted that preparations began last night, with liquid brining on expressways, hills, and main intersections starting around 8 p.m. The salting operation is ongoing, prioritizing major arterial roads and collector streets, with residential areas being addressed shortly thereafter.

11:00 a.m.

Geoff Coulson, a meteorologist from Environment Canada, indicated that today marks the first widespread snowfall event for many areas in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). While snowfall totals may not be staggering, the weather will still impact afternoon commutes, particularly for those traveling west or east of the GTA. A snow squall warning is currently in effect eastward from Cobourg to Kingston, while blowing snow warnings are also issued for areas to the west because of pre-existing snow combined with today’s gusty winds.

10:30 a.m.

Across Ontario, Environment Canada has issued multiple winter weather travel advisories and snow squall warnings. Most warnings are concentrated outside the GTA, with Cobourg under a significant snow squall warning forecasting 15 to 25 centimeters of snow.

9:30 a.m.

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) South Central Ontario has reported higher-than-normal call volumes this morning and anticipates an increase throughout the day. As temperatures drop, the CAA typically sees more calls for battery failures, alongside an uptick in demand for towing services due to slippery road conditions.

9:00 a.m.

In Richmond Hill, Mayor David West confirmed that snow removal operations will proceed despite an ongoing strike affecting some municipal workers, including plow operators. This situation might lead to slight delays in the clearing of roads and sidewalks, but crews are prepared and have been active throughout the night.

7:15 a.m.

Ontario Provincial Police Sergeant Kerry Schmidt has urged drivers to remain vigilant as road conditions are likely to change rapidly during the storm. While traction is adequate on most major highways, drivers should exercise caution as it may deteriorate, making it crucial to stay aware of surroundings and adjust driving behaviors accordingly.

Stay tuned for more updates as Toronto navigates this winter challenge, which serves as a reminder that snow season has officially arrived in the region!