Rain and freezing rain is expected to hit the GTA: Here’s what you need to know

Just a few days after the Boxing Day dump that blanketed the GTA, the region is bracing for yet another storm – this time wetter, and gustier.

Prepare for possible outages and road closures as a powerful winter storm makes its way into Ontario on Sunday, bringing a messy mix of ice, snow, and rain. #ONstorm #ONwxhttps://t.co/NisY3vYMge

— The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) December 28, 2025

A Yellow Warning from Environment Canada is in effect across southwestern Ontario, with 20 to 40 millimeters of rain and freezing rain expected mid-Sunday through to early Monday. Yellow warnings indicate hazardous weather that may cause “damage, disruption, or health impacts” that are “moderate, localized, and/or short-term,” according to the agency.

Environment Canada says the frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb the heavy rain, which means there is a possibility of localized flooding. It is advising people to avoid low-lying areas, rivers, creeks, and ditches, and to clear their storm drains in preparation.

TRCA has issued a Flood Outlook in effect until Monday, December 29, 2025 due to rain and melting snow that may cause rivers to rise and flooding is possible. Stay away from all rivers, streams & shorelines as they are dangerous at this time. #ONStorm https://t.co/JgVsQtrkhL pic.twitter.com/OgSpvC9M2O

— TRCA Flood (@TRCA_Flood) December 28, 2025

There is also a special weather statement working in tandem with the rainfall warning, with wind gusts of 70 to 80 kilometers per hour expected starting Monday morning. Environment Canada says strong, southwesterly winds are expected to develop in the morning as a strong cold front makes its way across the region. The winds are expected to ease through the evening as they pivot to the northwest.

Good morning.
If there is ever a time for the weather forecast models to be wrong, I'm hoping this is it. Some areas could be getting a very significant amount of freezing rain follwed by damaging winds.
Get the generator ready. Its going to be a long night. #ONstorm pic.twitter.com/ZY1cMwQwTx

— Chris Knox (@ChrisKnoxPhotog) December 28, 2025

The combination of active weather could lead to power outages and damaged structures. Environment Canada is advising residents to secure loose objects in and around their property to minimize damage.

Road conditions are also expected to deteriorate as active weather moves through. While the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging motorists to avoid all non-essential travel, they are urging extra caution and preparation should you have to hit the road.

In a statement to Now Toronto, the OPP says “travel during this storm could be extremely dangerous with an accumulation of ice due to high amounts of rain and freezing rain, snow, and gusting winds.”

Here are a few reminders from the OPP:

• Before heading out motorists should check the road conditions on www.511on.ca and the local weather forecast and current conditions

• Motorists should make sure their full headlights are on, even in the daytime, so that other motorists can see them if visibility is reduced

• Motorists must drive slow in difficult weather conditions and allow for extra time to get to their destination

• A full tank of gas, a survival kit, and a fully charged cellphone are also necessary to prepare for safe winter driving

In areas of localized flooding, the OPP says motorists should obey all closures and detours, and not attempt to drive through flooded roadways or low-lying areas.

Once the active system moves past the region by Monday evening, Torontonians can expect cloudy conditions with a chance of flurries in the last two days of 2025. New Year’s Eve is expected to see a low of minus 10, with a 60 per cent chance of flurries.