Snowstorm Shuts Down Toronto: Schools Closed and Commutes Disrupted

A significant snowstorm has hit southern Ontario, disrupting education and transportation. Schools in Toronto and surrounding areas are closed, and air travel faced delays. Environment Canada predicts up to 30 cm of snow in affected regions. Authorities urge caution as roads remain treacherous due to snow and wind.

A significant snowstorm brought life to a standstill in Toronto on Thursday, as schools were closed and commuters faced severe delays due to hazardous road conditions. Heavy snowfall blanketed the region, impacting much of southern Ontario, including Toronto, Kitchener, and Hamilton. Environment Canada's forecast predicted up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) of snow, exacerbating transportation woes in the affected regions.

The snowfall led to the closure of schools in Toronto, York, Peel, and Halton Regions, with major institutions like the University of Toronto shuttering their campuses. Environment Canada warned that the Ottawa area would receive up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) of snow, accompanied by strong wind gusts reducing visibility and significantly lowering temperatures. This kind of complete closure due to snow is a rare occurrence in Toronto.

Ontario's Provincial police issued warnings against road travel, responding to multiple incidents and road closures across southern Ontario. Both Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow cancelled public events in light of the adverse weather. At Toronto's Pearson airport, some flights faced disruptions due to snow management procedures, and travelers were urged to verify flight statuses before departing for the airport.