After a turbulent week of shifting temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks, Toronto residents may want to keep their shovels and warm coats close at hand. Another significant snow event is poised to roll in shortly after the last winter storm swept across the city, bringing icy commutes and power outages. Meteorologists are watching closely as another system approaches, raising concerns about timing, intensity, and yet another round of wintry obstacles for Southern Ontario.
This continued bout of wintry weather comes at a time when many Torontonians are already feeling exhausted from January’s frequent snowfalls and temperature swings. Public transportation, infrastructure maintenance, and school schedules have all taken hits this season. As snow is set to return to Toronto in the coming days, city services are scrambling to prepare for what could be another disruptive storm, with early indications showing considerable accumulation and potential mixed precipitation.
Snowstorm details at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected arrival | Late Wednesday evening to early Thursday |
| Snow accumulation | 5–10 cm possible, locally higher |
| Temperature range | –3°C to –7°C |
| Potential weather mix | Snow, freezing rain, light ice pellets |
| Primary impacts | Road conditions, transit delays, school closures |
What meteorologists are saying about the next snowfall
Current forecasting models suggest that Toronto will see snow beginning late Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday morning. The total snowfall is expected to range between **5 to 10 centimetres**, but isolated areas could receive more due to narrow snow bands enhanced by lake effect conditions. Wind gusts, reduced visibility, and freezing rain could also complicate cleanup efforts.
Meteorologists warn that the **potential for mixed precipitation** like ice pellets and freezing rain will depend on how temperatures behave in the lower and middle atmospheric layers. A slight warming trend aloft could shift snow into sleet or freezing drizzle, which would introduce more hazardous road conditions than snow alone.
“We’re watching two systems—one that brushes us and another that follows more directly. The timing isn’t friendly for commuters, and the precipitation type could vary widely from west to east.”
— Jane Collins, Senior Meteorologist
Key timing for the midweek snowfall
The incoming system is expected to start influencing weather patterns in the late hours of Wednesday. Snowfall intensifies overnight and **peaks during the early Thursday commute**, posing challenges for clearing operations and increasing the risk of morning delays. By Thursday afternoon, conditions should stabilize, but snow squalls and residual flurries may linger until Friday morning.
This window coincides with a busy time for commuter traffic and logistical operations, escalating its disruptive potential. Roads could see significant snow build-up during the night, and refreezing conditions later may extend risks well into the weekend.
How schools and transit systems are preparing
Toronto’s public school boards have already begun **monitoring conditions** and are ready to issue closure announcements by early Thursday if the storm develops as predicted. Transit systems such as the TTC and GO Transit are also setting contingency plans in motion. Salting fleets and snow removal trucks have been placed on standby, and crews expect overnight deployment for proactive management.
Past storms this winter season have stretched city resources and left some neighborhood streets unplowed for extended periods. With this in mind, city officials are urging residents to **avoid unnecessary travel** and allow extra time for morning commutes through Thursday.
Recent snowfall adds pressure on infrastructure
Toronto has already experienced several major snow days this winter, and each new storm piles more pressure on already-fatigued infrastructure. From crumbling sidewalks to clogged drainage systems and overworked snow removal crews, the cumulative impact is becoming more visible. Residents across many neighborhoods have reported **delays in street plowing** and inconsistent salting practices.
Concerns are also growing about the weight of snow on rooftops, and the city has issued updated safety reminders for homeowners to keep vents and rooflines clear of dangerous accumulations. Cold snaps interspersed with milder spells have worsened freeze-thaw cycles, breaking up concrete walkways and affecting accessibility.
Winners and losers of the storm
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Ski resorts and winter activity centers | Commuters on Thursday morning |
| Snow removal contractors | City infrastructure and sidewalks |
| Retailers selling winter gear | School bus operations and daycare centers |
How residents can stay safe and prepared
Emergency responders and city officials strongly encourage residents to take preemptive steps before the next snowfall. These include:
- Clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways before it hardens
- Stocking up on **de-icing salt and traction aids**
- Restocking emergency kits and car supplies
- Charging devices in case of weather-related power outages
During the storm, the use of weather apps and local radio for regular updates is advisable. Parents should keep an eye on school board announcements for potential **virtual learning days** or closures. Cyclists and pedestrians are advised to use extra caution or avoid travel if conditions worsen unexpectedly from snow to ice.
Air travel disruptions likely across Southern Ontario
Toronto Pearson and Billy Bishop airports are both bracing for another round of **delays and possible cancellations**. Like the previous storm, de-icing protocols and runway clearing operations will be critical and may result in back-ups throughout the day on Thursday. Travelers are asked to check with their airlines directly and arrive early if flights remain scheduled.
Winter travel within Southern Ontario remains challenging as surrounding areas like Mississauga, Brampton, Oshawa, and Hamilton are all within the storm’s target path. Highways like the 401 and QEW, notorious for slowdowns in snow, will be heavily affected.
What to expect beyond the storm
Long-range forecasts currently hint at a return to **more seasonal conditions** following the snowstorm, though intermittent flurries will continue into the weekend. Temperatures remaining below freezing will prevent significant melt, which could result in icy patches and long-standing mounds of curbside snow. There may be further weak systems early next week, but none show the same confidence for impactful snowfall.
Nevertheless, with February fast approaching, the city remains vulnerable to larger systems and late-season snow blitzes. All eyes will be on weather models throughout the coming week for signs of additional events.
Frequently asked questions
When will the next snowstorm hit Toronto?
The storm is expected to begin late Wednesday evening and intensify overnight, peaking during Thursday morning’s commute.
How much snow will Toronto receive?
Forecasts call for **5 to 10 centimetres**, though localized areas may exceed that due to lake effect enhancements.
Will schools close due to the storm?
School boards are monitoring the situation and will announce any closures or learning adjustments early Thursday morning.
What modes of travel will be impacted?
Expect delays across bus, rail, subway, and flight networks in addition to challenging driving conditions on local roads and highways.
What should I do to prepare for the storm?
Clear property in advance, stay updated via news or weather channels, avoid unnecessary travel, and make sure you have food, warmth, and devices charged in case of power issues.