snowfall weather forecast

Winter Isn’t Over Yet: Southern Ontario Braces for Another Snow Round

As March inches closer, many Canadians are already dreaming of spring blooms and milder temperatures. But Mother Nature isn’t ready to say goodbye just yet—especially in parts of southern Ontario. Forecasters are warning of another significant snowfall event this week, with up to 15 centimetres expected in some areas. With winter still clinging on strong, residents are being urged to prepare for icy roads, potential travel disruptions, and the familiar challenges that come with late-season snow.

This latest weather system follows a series of winter storms that have kept much of the province in cold, snowy conditions well into February. From freezing drizzle advisories in Toronto to widespread snow warnings across eastern Ontario, the region has seen its fair share of wintry weather this season.

What’s Happening Now? Recent Updates

According to verified reports from CP24 and SooToday.com, a fresh burst of snow is set to sweep through southern Ontario, particularly affecting communities north of Belleville and Kingston, including Stirling and Tweed. The Weather Network and local forecasters are predicting accumulations of 10 to 15 centimetres by Tuesday evening, depending on timing and intensity.

In Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), authorities issued a freezing drizzle advisory early Monday morning. This means that moisture in the air is freezing on contact with surfaces like roads, sidewalks, and vehicles, creating hazardous black ice conditions even without heavy snowfall. Such conditions can significantly reduce visibility and make driving especially dangerous during rush hour.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation has advised drivers to exercise caution, reduce speed, and avoid unnecessary trips. School boards in several districts have also announced remote learning options or delayed start times to ensure student safety.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada continues to monitor the storm’s progression closely. While the core of the system will pass through eastern Ontario, lingering flurries may affect western parts of the province later this week.

Why Is This Winter So Persistent?

Ontario hasn’t exactly been enjoying a typical winter this year. Instead, it’s experienced an unusually prolonged stretch of cold and snowy weather, defying seasonal norms. Meteorologists point to several atmospheric factors at play:

A Strong Alberta Clipper System

One key driver behind this week’s snow round is what’s known as an “Alberta clipper”—a fast-moving low-pressure system originating from the western prairies. These systems typically bring light to moderate snow over large swathes of central and eastern Canada. However, when combined with moisture from the Great Lakes and cooler-than-average lake surface temperatures, they can intensify into more impactful storms.

This particular clipper has been persistent, moving slowly eastward and repeatedly tapping into moisture sources along the border regions. As a result, southern Ontario has seen multiple rounds of snow since mid-February.

Unseasonably Cold Arctic Air

Another contributing factor is the presence of unusually cold Arctic air lingering over the province. Unlike previous years when warmer Pacific air masses moderated winter conditions, this season has seen a stronger influence from northern polar winds. These colder temperatures mean that any precipitation falling from incoming systems is far more likely to accumulate as snow rather than rain or sleet.

Additionally, lake-effect snow patterns—common around Lake Ontario and Lake Erie—have been amplified due to temperature contrasts between the relatively warm lakes and frigid air above them. This phenomenon often leads to localized heavy snow bands, especially near waterfront communities.

Impacts Across the Region

The immediate effects of this latest snowfall are already being felt across transportation, infrastructure, and daily life:

• Travel Disruptments: Highway 401 and major arterial routes in Ottawa and Kingston have reported slick conditions and reduced visibility. Several bus routes in the GTA were rerouted or delayed due to icy sidewalks and unsafe roadways.

• School Closures and Adjustments: While most schools remained open, several in Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark Counties opted for remote instruction due to weather concerns. Parents in affected areas were advised to check district websites for real-time updates.

• Utility Concerns: Power outages remain minimal so far, but utility companies like Hydro One are on standby. Crews are pre-positioned in high-risk zones to respond quickly if downed lines occur due to ice buildup on power lines.

• Emergency Preparedness: Local municipalities have activated winter response protocols, including increased plowing schedules and sanding operations on priority roads. Residents are encouraged to keep emergency kits in their vehicles and homes, including blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food.

Economically, the repeated snow events have added strain to supply chains, particularly for construction and delivery services. Retailers in rural communities report slower foot traffic, while ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft have seen demand spike during peak travel hours.

Looking Ahead: What Does the Rest of Winter Hold?

While this week’s storm brings temporary relief to ski resorts and winter sports enthusiasts, long-term forecasts suggest that winter may not be quite finished with Ontario just yet.

AccuWeather and The Weather Channel are tracking the possibility of another significant U.S.-originated low pressure system moving into the region by Thursday. If confirmed, this could bring additional snowfall—potentially exceeding 20 centimetres in isolated spots—along with strong winds and blizzard-like conditions.

However, meteorologists emphasize uncertainty in these extended models. “Winter weather forecasting beyond five days carries significant risk,” said Dr. Elena Martinez, senior climatologist at Environment Canada. “We’re watching closely, but we won’t issue official warnings until confidence increases.”

Climate scientists note that while individual winter storms aren’t necessarily linked to climate change, the overall trend toward more variable and intense winter weather is consistent with broader warming patterns. Warmer oceans can fuel stronger storms, while shifting jet streams allow Arctic air to penetrate further south with greater frequency.

Still, for now, Ontarians should brace for more snow before spring arrives. The current pattern mirrors past decades—particularly the winters of the early 2000s and late 1990s—when prolonged cold snaps delayed spring thaws and led to record snow totals in certain regions.

How to Prepare for Late-Winter Snow Events

Whether you’re a seasoned winter driver or new to Canadian winters, staying informed and prepared is essential. Here are some practical tips based on guidance from Transport Canada and public health officials:

1. Check Local Forecasts Daily: Use trusted sources like Yahoo News Canada, CP24, or Environment Canada for real-time updates.
2. Equip Your Vehicle: Ensure your car has winter tires, antifreeze, jumper cables, and a fully charged phone. Keep a small emergency kit in your trunk.
3. Plan Ahead: Avoid non-essential travel during severe alerts. If you must drive, inform someone of your route and estimated arrival time.
4. Stay Warm Indoors: Stock up on essentials—batteries, candles, bottled water, and canned goods—in case of power outages.
5. Watch for Ice: Even light snow can combine with freezing rain to create invisible hazards. Walk carefully and use handrails on stairs and sidewalks.

Local governments are also ramping up communications through social media, text alerts, and municipal websites. Signing up for city notifications can provide peace of mind and help you act quickly when conditions change.

Final Thoughts: Winter’s Unexpected Hold

While many hoped that February would mark the end of Ontario’s deep freeze, nature has other plans. This latest snow round underscores how unpredictable—and resilient—winter weather can be. For residents across southern Ontario, the message is clear: don’t let your guard down just because March is here.

As one resident in Kingston put it after shoveling her driveway Monday morning: “I know it’s technically almost spring, but I’ve lived here long enough to know better. You never assume winter’s gone for good.”

With more snow on the way and no immediate sign of retreat from the Arctic front, staying vigilant and informed remains the best strategy. Until the calendar turns definitively toward spring, the snow will keep coming—and so must our preparation.

Sources: - Winter isn't over yet: Burst of widespread snow to impact Ontario – Yahoo News Canada - Toronto, parts of GTA under freezing drizzle advisory – CP24 - Up to 15 cm of snow forecast for the city – SooToday.com - AccuWeather WinterCast & National Weather Service