Key Takeaways
- The Greater Toronto Area is expected to receive significant snowfall on Friday, with 8-12 centimeters of snow predicted
- The snowfall is expected to start midday and continue into the evening, with heavy snowfall and reduced visibility possible
- Motorists are advised to exercise caution and adjust travel plans accordingly, as roads and walkways may be difficult to navigate
- Christmas Day is expected to be mainly cloudy, with a high of 1 C and a wind chill of -11 in the evening
- The temperature is expected to feel like -19 with the wind chill on Friday morning, and -13 in the afternoon
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
The Christmas season is often associated with snow and cold weather, and it seems that those in the Greater Toronto Area will get their wish, albeit a day late. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the GTA and most of Southern Ontario, warning of a possible winter storm on Boxing Day. The national weather agency has predicted significant snowfall for the area, with between 8 and 12 centimeters of snow expected to fall on Friday. This snowfall is expected to start midday and continue into the evening, making travel plans potentially challenging.
The Weather Statement and Warning
On Thursday morning, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement advising of the possible winter storm on Boxing Day. Hours later, the agency issued a "yellow warning," advising of significant snow expected on Friday in Toronto. The warning stated that snow is expected to begin late Friday morning and then end from west to east through Friday evening. However, there is some uncertainty regarding the track of the low-pressure system, which may impact the eastern edge of the significant snowfall area. As a result, people are advised to stay up to date with the latest weather forecast and warnings.
The Impact of the Snowfall
The snowfall is expected to be heavy at times, especially in the afternoon hours, and visibilities will likely be reduced. This could make travel plans challenging, and motorists are advised to exercise caution and adjust their plans accordingly. Environment Canada has warned that roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow, and people should allow extra time for travel. The agency has also advised people to be prepared for reduced visibility and potentially hazardous travel conditions.
The Christmas Forecast
While the snowfall is expected to arrive on Boxing Day, Christmas Day itself is expected to be mainly cloudy, with a high of 1 C. However, the wind chill will make it feel more like -11 in the evening, and -19 overnight. On Friday, the city will see a high of -5, with a wind chill of -19 in the morning and -13 in the afternoon. The temperature is expected to rise slightly over the weekend, with a high of 2 C expected on Saturday and a high of 1 C expected on Sunday. Overall, it will be a cold and potentially snowy Christmas weekend in the Greater Toronto Area.
Preparation and Safety
Given the expected snowfall and cold temperatures, it is essential for people to be prepared and take necessary safety precautions. This includes checking the latest weather forecast and warnings, allowing extra time for travel, and being prepared for reduced visibility and potentially hazardous travel conditions. People should also ensure that they have warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, and that their vehicles are winter-ready. By taking these precautions, people can stay safe and enjoy the winter weather.
