A hush fell over the Greater Toronto Area Sunday morning, broken only by the soft descent of the season’s first snow. It wasn’t the heavy, lingering blanket of winter, but a fleeting preview – a reminder of the months to come.
While some flakes surrendered immediately upon touching the warming asphalt, enough accumulated to transform the landscape, offering a momentary glimpse of a winter wonderland. The reprieve, however, will be brief. A warming trend is predicted to arrive swiftly.
Forecasts now predict temperatures climbing to 4°C on Tuesday and a further rise to 6°C on Wednesday, promising a rapid melt. This initial snowfall is thanks to a low-pressure system currently sweeping across southern Ontario, bringing with it a touch of winter’s chill.
Environment Canada has issued special weather statements stretching from London to Ottawa, anticipating snowfall totals between five and ten centimetres before the system moves on. However, the exact path of the storm remains uncertain, meaning predictions could shift.
The agency cautioned drivers to prepare for challenging winter conditions, urging adjustments to travel plans and anticipating potential delays. The early arrival of snow demands a heightened awareness on the roads.
The cold snap prompted a swift response from the City of Toronto, which opened additional shelter spaces for those experiencing homelessness. With temperatures expected to dip to -5°C Sunday night, the need for safe, warm refuge became critical.
The early winter weather isn’t confined to Ontario. Southern and central Quebec are also experiencing their first snowfall, with Montreal bracing for nearly ten centimetres of accumulation through Monday. The entire region is feeling the first bite of the approaching season.
