Toronto Faces Heavy Snow and Strong Winds, Alerts Issued

A special weather statement has been issued for Toronto and much of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as the region braces for additional snowfall and strong winds. Environment Canada forecasts that the city will experience an additional **2 to 4 centimetres** of snow, accompanied by wind gusts reaching up to **70 km/h**.

Markham and parts of Durham Region are under a yellow snowfall warning, which indicates potentially more severe conditions. These areas could receive **2 to 5 centimetres** of snow, with higher elevations north of Lake Ontario, including the Oak Ridges Moraine, possibly receiving up to **5 centimetres**.

Traffic and Safety Concerns

The adverse weather has already led to several collisions on icy roads. Toronto police are urging drivers to exercise caution. Constable **Shannon Eames** emphasized the importance of preparing before venturing out. “Keep your headlights on and clean off your car to ensure full visibility,” she advised.

Drivers are encouraged to reduce their speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. “If you don’t need to be on the roads, we suggest you stay home, where you can be warm and dry,” Eames added. For those who must drive, she recommended adjusting speed to match road conditions and keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle, including extra windshield washer fluid and warm clothing.

Police have already responded to multiple accidents due to the weather, highlighting the need for public awareness and adherence to safety tips. “We just want to speak to the public to make sure they get the tips that we are giving so they can get to where they need to be safely,” Eames stated.

Community Support and Resources

As temperatures hover around **0°C**, the City of Toronto has opened five warming centres to assist the vulnerable population. Outreach teams are actively encouraging individuals to seek shelter indoors. The warming centres are located at:

– 136 Spadina Rd.
– 81 Elizabeth St.
– 12 Holmes Ave.
– 885 Scarborough Golf Club Rd.
– 349 George St.

Environment Canada continues to advise residents across the GTA to monitor weather alerts and forecasts, as conditions are expected to change throughout the day. With the combination of snow and strong winds, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety.