Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Toronto and nearby cities, warning of strong winds and blowing snow on Friday afternoon.
According to federal meteorologists, wind gusts could reach up to 80 km/h, especially in rural and exposed areas where local blowing snow may occur.
The weather agency explained, “A low-pressure system is approaching the region today, bringing a possibility of 4 to 8 cm of snow by evening. Strong winds, with gusts up to 70 km/h, are expected to accompany the system. As a cold front moves through the area later in the evening, wind gusts could escalate to 80 km/h before easing off.”
After the front passes, conditions are expected to improve, but there may still be instances of blowing snow and reduced visibility in rural areas.
The daytime temperature is forecasted to peak at -3°C, dropping significantly to -20°C at night. Environment Canada also warns of very cold wind chills overnight and into Saturday morning, advising the public to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, such as extra blankets and jumper cables.
Looking ahead, a return to more typical seasonal weather is anticipated from Tuesday onwards.