Winter Storm Warning Issued for Parts of Greater Toronto Area

Some parts of the Greater Toronto Area are now under a winter storm warning ahead of a system that could dump up to 25 centimetres of snow beginning Friday night.

Environment Canada initially issued a winter storm watch advisory for certain areas, but it has now been upgraded to a winter storm warning

The forecast calls for snow to begin late Friday afternoon and become heavy at times, transitioning to periods of rain Friday night as temperatures rise above freezing.

Peak snowfall rates of three to five centimetres per hour are expected, with a total snowfall of 10 to 25 centimetres by the time it tapers off. There is also a risk of a short period of freezing rain on Friday night.

Strong southeasterly winds with gusts up to 70 km/h are forecasted, which will significantly reduce visibility at times.

Following the storm, much colder arctic air will sweep across the region, potentially causing a multi-day lake effect snow event.

Environment Canada advises considering postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.

The winter storm warning also includes portions of central and southwestern Ontario.

There are no alerts currently in effect for Toronto. The forecast for Friday in the city calls for cloudy conditions throughout the day, with snow expected later in the evening and changing to periods of rain near midnight. Toronto could see five to 10 centimetres of snow. Saturday’s forecast includes the possibility of snow or rain with a high of 1 C.