Toronto is preparing for a powerful winter storm this weekend, with heavy snowfall of up to 30 centimeters expected on Sunday and temperatures feeling close to -30 C due to strong winds. CTV
Environment Canada has placed Toronto under a yellow winter storm watch for Sunday as a powerful system moves toward the city. Forecasts indicate that 20 to 30 centimeters of snow could fall, with strong wind gusts reaching up to 50 kilometers an hour. These winds may cause blowing snow and near-zero visibility at times, making travel difficult and risky.
Weather officials say heavier snowfall should arrive Sunday afternoon, but they still cannot confirm exactly which areas will see the most snow or how intense it may become.
Freezing grips the city
The storm watch comes as Toronto endures bitter cold conditions on Friday and Saturday. Wind chills could drop as low as -30 C, making outdoor exposure dangerous within minutes.
Environment Canada warns that temperatures may feel as cold as -33 with the wind chill. Officials urge residents to keep pets indoors, check on neighbors, and limit time spent outside whenever possible.
Health risks rise during deep freeze
City health officials say freezing can quickly cause serious health problems. Dr. Howard Shapiro, Toronto’s associate medical officer of health, says people should stay alert for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
“If you’ve been out a while and your fingers or toes are really numb, they look white, they feel like they’re actually frozen... then I think that is a sign that you should get some medical assessment,” he said.
He added that confusion, intense shivering, and trouble thinking clearly signal severe danger and require immediate attention.
Transit plans adjusted ahead of storm
Toronto’s transit system has cancelled planned subway closures scheduled for Sunday to prepare for the storm. Crews will still shut down a section of Line 1 late Friday night for planned work, but regular service will resume Sunday morning.
The transit agency has also activated its winter weather plan. Crews are running anti-icing trains and treating streetcar lines and transit yards to reduce ice buildup and delays.
Zoo and city services respond
The Toronto Zoo says it will close on Monday to allow crews time to clear snow safely. The zoo may also close early on Sunday depending on weather conditions.
The city reminds landlords that they must provide heat to at least 21 C during winter months. Residents who face unresolved heating issues should contact city services for help.
Shelters expand as cold worsens
To protect vulnerable residents, the city has opened 117 additional temporary shelter spaces on top of existing warming centers. In total, 540 emergency spaces now support people seeking relief from the cold.
City officials say shelter capacity will remain under review and may expand further if needed. Residents who see someone outdoors and distressed should contact 3-1-1.
Experts urge caution on roads
Police have already closed sections of Highway 11 north of the city after poor visibility and a serious collision. Officials advise drivers to avoid unnecessary travel during severe conditions.
Experts remind drivers to check vehicle batteries, carry emergency supplies, and dress warmly if travel becomes unavoidable.
With snow and cold combining this weekend, officials urge Toronto residents to prepare, stay informed, and put safety first.
