Another major snowstorm is headed for Southern Ontario this weekend just as residents are finishing the clean up from a storm earlier this week.
Toronto was blanketed with more than 20 cm of snow over 24-hours between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, making it the city’s most significant winter storm since 2022.
According to Environment Canada, another wicked storm is predicted to bring an additional 15 to 30 cm over today and Sunday, with city approximations reaching up to 34 cm.
Read More
In a statement on Friday, the municipality told Now Toronto the total snow accumulation from both of this week’s weather events is estimated to be about 54 centimetres, adding that it is continuing to closely evaluate weather conditions through the weekend.
“Once current plowing operations conclude, the City will assess the capacity of its road infrastructure to handle the additional expected snowfall this weekend before making a decision about whether snow removal is necessary,” city staff said.
“If it is needed, snow removal will likely start on Monday, Feb. 17, with snow transported by dump trucks to designated storage sites,” the statement continued.
People in areas of the city that need snow removal attention can call 311 or contact the city via its website.
The city is also reminding residents to shovel their driveways, front and side paths but to avoid shovelling into the street.
“Moving snow from private property onto roads, sidewalks and bikeways is illegal and can result in a fine,” city officials warned, adding that it may also take longer than normal to clear roads, bike lanes and sidewalks due to the sheer volume of snow.
In addition, parking restrictions remain in effect as will the major snowstorm condition and significant weather event declared on Wednesday until roadways are deemed safe.
Though parking is prohibited on roads designated as snow routes and on roads with temporary orange no-parking signage, as of Friday, Toronto Police Service Parking Enforcement had issued 1,500 tickets to vehicles parked on snow routes and 10 vehicles have been towed.
A list and map of snow routes are available here, though members of the public are advised to use public transport and to leave their vehicles at home.
However, road users should expect delays, slippery conditions and poor visibility.
“If driving, slow down, follow at a safe distance and use gentle braking, steering and acceleration. Road users should also keep a safe distance from snow clearing equipment and crews to let them complete their work safely and efficiently,” the city says.
Warming centres remain open, to help get as many people inside as possible. The city has opened temporary contingency spaces in the shelter system in areas not traditionally used for sleeping, it confirmed to Now.
To stay up to date with residents can view plowing operations as they occur at www.toronto.ca/plow.
By signing up, I agree to receive emails from Now Toronto and to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
