Update: Just before 8 a. m., the warning was upgraded to “Orange” level with a high impact as “significant snowfall continues” across the Greater Toronto Area and southern Ontario.
Environment Canada has three warning levels – yellow, orange and red.
At the orange level, “severe weather is likely to cause significant damage, disruption or health impacts.”
Orange alerts are uncommon and red alerts are rare.
Original story follows.
A major winter storm is currently covering Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, the Golden Horseshoe and much of southern Ontario with heavy snowfall, low visibility, and tough travel conditions throughout the region.
According to Environment Canada, many areas can expect snowfall amounts between 20 to 30 centimetres, with snow continuing through the morning and tapering off later in the afternoon.
Areas shaded in orange are under a higher level weather warning on Thursday. Yellow areas are also under a warning for snow. Map: Environment Canada
The system is driven by a strong low-pressure system moving through southern Ontario into Quebec, spreading widespread snowfall from Chatham in the southwest to Montreal in the east. In many communities, total accumulations of 10 to 25 centimetres are expected.
Conditions might be even worse in places affected by lake-effect snow. Squalls off Lake Huron could add an extra 20 centimetres of snow in parts of the Sarnia to Strathroy corridor.
In addition to heavy snow, the weather agency warns about strong winds, blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions that may occur especially in open areas and along major highways.
Very cold wind chills are expected this morning as well, which adds another risk for commuters and anyone outdoors.
Major impact expected on travel
Road conditions should get worse quickly with significant effects on rush-hour traffic including delays, collisions, and possible road closures across southern Ontario.
Drivers are advised to prepare for rapidly changing conditions; allow extra time for travel; and avoid unnecessary trips if they can.
Pedestrians should also exercise caution since sidewalks and walkways could become slippery and hard to navigate as more snow falls.
What residents should expect
Snowfall totals of 20-30 cm in parts of southern Ontario Reduced visibility due to heavy and blowing snow Hazardous road conditions along with potential whiteouts Very cold wind chills adding danger
Residents are encouraged to keep up with weather updates and plan accordingly as winter conditions affect the region throughout the day.
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According to Environment Canada, many areas can expect snowfall amounts between 20 to 30 centimetres, with snow continuing through the morning and tapering off later in the afternoon.
Areas shaded in orange are under a higher level weather warning on Thursday. Yellow areas are also under a warning for snow. Map: Environment Canada
The system is driven by a strong low-pressure system moving through southern Ontario into Quebec, spreading widespread snowfall from Chatham in the southwest to Montreal in the east. In many communities, total accumulations of 10 to 25 centimetres are expected.
Conditions might be even worse in places affected by lake-effect snow. Squalls off Lake Huron could add an extra 20 centimetres of snow in parts of the Sarnia to Strathroy corridor.
In addition to heavy snow, the weather agency warns about strong winds, blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions that may occur especially in open areas and along major highways.
Very cold wind chills are expected this morning as well, which adds another risk for commuters and anyone outdoors.
Major impact expected on travel
Road conditions should get worse quickly with significant effects on rush-hour traffic including delays, collisions, and possible road closures across southern Ontario.
Drivers are advised to prepare for rapidly changing conditions; allow extra time for travel; and avoid unnecessary trips if they can.
Pedestrians should also exercise caution since sidewalks and walkways could become slippery and hard to navigate as more snow falls.
What residents should expect
Snowfall totals of 20-30 cm in parts of southern Ontario Reduced visibility due to heavy and blowing snow Hazardous road conditions along with potential whiteouts Very cold wind chills adding danger
Residents are encouraged to keep up with weather updates and plan accordingly as winter conditions affect the region throughout the day.
Last 30 Days: 69,868 Votes
All Time: 1,156,177 Votes
2731 VOTES
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