Key Takeaways:
- The next few days are expected to be the busiest travel days of 2025, with millions of people traveling through airports, train stations, and highways to visit family, get home, or fly south to escape winter.
- Weather-related challenges, such as extreme cold, deep snow, and freezing rain, are common during the holiday season, but this year’s forecast appears to be relatively tame.
- Airports are expecting a surge in passengers, with Toronto’s Pearson Airport expecting 171,000 passengers per day over the next few weeks.
- Travelers should check the forecast before they travel, give themselves enough time at the airport, and be prepared for potential weather-related delays.
- It’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecast and alerts, especially if you’re traveling next week.
Introduction to Holiday Travel
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the chaos of traveling to visit loved ones or escape the cold. The 1987 movie Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, starring Steve Martin and John Candy, is a relatable classic that showcases the nightmare journey of trying to make it home for the holidays. This year, millions of people are expected to travel through airports, train stations, and highways, making it one of the busiest times of the year. According to David Phillips, climatologist emeritus with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the winter storm that recently hit parts of the country may not be a significant concern for travelers this year.
Weather Forecast
Phillips notes that while Canada is a vast country with various climates, the current forecast appears to be relatively tame. He predicts rain in Vancouver, flurries and clear skies in the Prairies, and mixed precipitation and flurries in southern Ontario. By Tuesday, he expects sunshine in Winnipeg, flurries in Halifax and St. John’s, and crisp, clear skies in Nunavut. Phillips describes the forecast as "nature’s gift to us," but reminds travelers that weather conditions can change quickly. The recent winter storm that hit the Prairies is expected to make its way to the Maritimes, and travelers should be prepared for potential weather-related delays.
Airport Preparations
Airports are gearing up for the busy holiday season, with Toronto’s Pearson Airport expecting 171,000 passengers per day over the next few weeks. Sean Davidson, a spokesperson for the airport, says that the airport is prepared for the surge in passengers, but reminds travelers to check the forecast, give themselves enough time at the airport, and be prepared for potential delays. The Ottawa Airport Authority expects December 21-23 to be its busiest travel days, with most flights at or near capacity. The Vancouver International Airport has already experienced its busiest day of the season, and the Calgary airport expects 1.48 million travelers through the month of December.
Travel Tips
Travelers can take steps to ensure a smooth journey by checking the forecast, confirming their flight status, and booking parking in advance. It’s also essential to check what you’re allowed to carry on and give yourself enough time at the airport. Two hours is recommended for domestic flights, and three hours for international flights. Steven Flisfeder, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada, urges Canadians to check the forecast before they travel, as weather conditions can change quickly. He reminds travelers to stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecast and alerts, especially if they’re traveling next week.
Winter Weather Precautions
Winter weather can be volatile, and travelers should be prepared for potential weather-related challenges. Rain, snow, wind, and rapidly dropping temperatures are expected in southern Ontario and Quebec, which could cause icy conditions on roads and make travel difficult. The snow that hit the Prairies will make its way to the Maritimes, and travelers should be prepared for potential delays. Flisfeder reminds travelers that "things can change," and it’s essential to stay informed about the latest weather forecast and alerts.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a busy time for travel, and while the forecast appears to be relatively tame this year, travelers should still be prepared for potential weather-related challenges. By checking the forecast, giving themselves enough time at the airport, and staying up-to-date with the latest weather forecast and alerts, travelers can ensure a smooth journey to their destination. Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected and to stay safe on the roads. With millions of people traveling during the holiday season, it’s crucial to be patient, flexible, and informed to make the most of your holiday travel experience.