Key Takeaways
- Much of Canada experienced treacherous weather on Boxing Day, including heavy snowfall, ice pellets, fog, and extreme cold temperatures.
- Central Yukon is recovering from an Arctic ridge of high pressure that brought bitterly cold temperatures and possible rolling blackouts.
- Newfoundland and Labrador faced winter storm warnings with heavy snow and strong winds, resulting in blizzard-like conditions.
- Ontario experienced heavy fog, snow, and freezing rain, with significant snowfall in the Greater Toronto Area.
- Environment Canada issued warnings and special weather statements for various regions, advising people to avoid non-essential travel and outdoor activities.
Introduction to the Weather Situation
The weather in Canada took a turn for the worse on Boxing Day, with many parts of the country experiencing treacherous conditions. After a relatively mild winter, the weather suddenly became more intense, with heavy snowfall, ice pellets, fog, and extreme cold temperatures affecting large swaths of the country. The Central Yukon, which had been grappling with an extreme cold snap for the past three weeks, was still in a deep freeze, with temperatures in some communities dropping to –50 C.
Weather Conditions in Central Yukon
The Central Yukon was recovering somewhat after facing possible rolling blackouts due to an Arctic ridge of high pressure. Environment Canada reported that light winds combined with bitterly cold temperatures would produce extreme wind chill values ranging from –50 to –55 C. However, temperature and wind chill values were expected to improve through Friday. The region had been experiencing an extreme cold snap for the past three weeks, with temperatures in some communities dropping to –50 C. The situation was being closely monitored, and residents were advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Winter Storm Warnings in Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador were under winter storm warnings, with areas from Cartwright to Lodge Bay experiencing heavy snow combined with strong winds, resulting in blizzard-like conditions. Environment Canada estimated total snowfall at 30 to 50 centimeters, with the highest amounts inland, and maximum northerly wind gusts of 110 to 120 km/h were expected to end later Friday afternoon. The national weather agency warned people to avoid non-essential travel and outdoor activities, advising them to protect themselves from wind, cold, and disorientation by staying sheltered, indoors, or with their vehicle.
Weather Conditions in Ontario
Ontario was not left out of the winter weather, with heavy fog setting in throughout various parts of the province. Southern and southwestern Ontario, as well as the Niagara Region, experienced messy and potentially dangerous elements. In eastern Ontario, the Picton and Napanee areas could be hit with up to 10 centimeters of snow on Boxing Day afternoon, with wind gusts as high as 50 km/h. Another two to four centimeters could fall on Friday evening before tapering off after midnight. Environment Canada’s special weather statement said Waterloo Region was expected to get five to eight centimeters of snowfall, with five to 10 centimeters anticipated for Guelph. Ice pellets mixed in with snow and freezing rain were also on the weather menu.
Impact on Daily Life
Despite the challenging weather conditions, many people in Ontario went about their regular business, including driving and taking their dogs for walks. However, Environment Canada urged people to allow extra time for travel, citing "challenging" travel and reduced visibility "at times." Snowfall was expected to continue into Friday evening, with accumulations of eight to 12 centimeters. The Greater Toronto Area experienced significant snowfall, making for some scenic landscapes but also ugly conditions for outings. Streetcars made their way through the snowstorm, and people were advised to exercise caution when traveling.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the weather in Canada took a dramatic turn on Boxing Day, with many parts of the country experiencing treacherous conditions. The Central Yukon, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Ontario were among the regions affected, with heavy snowfall, ice pellets, fog, and extreme cold temperatures. Environment Canada issued warnings and special weather statements, advising people to avoid non-essential travel and outdoor activities. As the weather continues to evolve, it is essential for Canadians to stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe. By staying up to date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings, people can plan their activities accordingly and minimize the risks associated with the treacherous weather conditions.
