A wave of Arctic cold has moved into the Greater Toronto Area and is likely to stay in place for the rest of January. Global News
A wave of bitter Arctic air has settled over the Greater Toronto Area and shows no signs of leaving anytime soon. Weather experts say the cold pattern, often called a polar vortex, will likely hold firm through the rest of January.
Temperatures across the region dropped sharply, with Toronto recording -13 C. Strong winds made it feel much colder, closer to -24. Vaughan felt nearer to -19 with the wind chill, while Oshawa dipped to a bone-chilling -22.
What’s Behind the Freezing
“You often hear about the polar vortex, and that’s really oftentimes where some of the coldest air is centered around the Arctic Circle and farther north, and at times parts of it can travel south,” said Ross Hull. “We get into these Arctic air events, or intrusions as some people call them, and that’s what we’re experiencing right now.
“It does look like this pattern is going to stay put for at least the rest of January, which I know is not necessarily welcome news for some people.”
Hull explained that a deep pocket of cold air remains parked over the region, keeping temperatures a few degrees below seasonal norms until early February.
Brief Break on the Way
Residents will see a short break from the deep freeze midweek. An Alberta clipper system will move into Ontario on Wednesday, pushing slightly warmer air into the area.
“So temperatures actually rise, but it does deliver some snow,” Hull said.
Daytime temperatures may climb closer to zero, but the system will bring fresh snowfall. Most areas can expect around five centimeters, while eastern parts of the GTA, including Scarborough and southern Durham, may see closer to eight centimeters due to lake effects.
Cold Returns Quickly
The relief will not last long. Forecasts from Environment Canada show temperatures dropping again by Thursday. Toronto could see -4 C on Thursday, followed by lows of -11 C on Friday and Saturday.
Hull warned that wind chills late Friday and early Saturday could plunge into the -30 range, making outdoor exposure dangerous.
Communities Step Up Support
As the cold deepens, cities across the GTA have opened warming centers and emergency shelters. Toronto, Durham, and Peel Region have all expanded services to help people without adequate shelter stay safe during the cold spell.
No freezing warning stood in place as of Tuesday afternoon, as such alerts usually require temperatures or wind chills of -30 C or colder for at least two hours. Still, officials caution that cold-related injuries can happen even at higher temperatures.
Staying Safe in the Cold
Health officials urge residents to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors. People should stay active when outside to maintain body heat and check weather updates before heading out.
With the polar vortex holding firm, residents should prepare for several more days of winter’s harshest conditions.
