What to know
- A Major Snowstorm Condition and Significant Weather Event remain in effect after more than 50 centimetres of snow fell across parts of Toronto.
- Parking is prohibited on all snow routes, and vehicles blocking snow removal zones may be ticketed or towed.
- Snow clearing is ongoing but slower than usual, as crews prioritize major roads, transit routes and emergency access.
- Several City services are closed or operating at reduced levels today, including 311 counters, social services offices and cultural centres.
Toronto is digging out after a major winter storm blanketed the city with upwards of 50 cm of snow on Sunday, resulting in several clearing efforts and service disruptions across the city.
City officials activated Toronto’s Major Snow Event Response Plan (MSERP) on Sunday and declared both a Major Snowstorm Condition and a Significant Weather Event, measures that still remained in effect as of Monday morning as crews work to clear roads, sidewalks and transit routes.
According to Environment Canada, January 2026 is the snowiest it has ever been on record, as well as the snowiest month recorded, ever since the agency began record keeping in 1937. So far, Canada has seen a total of 88.2 cm of snow this year. Additionally, Toronto Pearson Airport saw the most daily snowfall in its history with 46 cm on Sunday.
Snowfall began early on Sunday, significantly impacting travel conditions across the city into the Monday morning rush hour. Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to remain patient as cleanup efforts continue.
“This is expected to take several days to complete due to the significant amounts of expected snow accumulation,” the city said in a press release.
PARKING RESTRICTIONS
Under the Major Snowstorm Condition, parking is prohibited on all designated snow routes, which include roads with permanent “snow route” signage.
Drivers are also reminded that parking in these zones may lead to a fine of up to $500 or having vehicles towed at the owner’s expense.
Residents are encouraged to use off-street parking where possible to help speed up snow removal.
Additionally, residents can track plowing activity through the City’s PlowTO map.
CITY SERVICES AFFECTED
As cleanup continues, several City services are closed or operating at reduced levels on Monday due to the storm. These services include:
- 311 Service Counters
- Registry Service Counters
- Elections Counter
- Toronto Employment and Social Services offices (except Wellesley Place)
- Cultural centres
- Tax and inquiry counters, including property tax and utility bill services
The City has not indicated when full service levels will resume, but will continue to provide updates through its website and social media channels, including @cityoftoronto on X.
