The Greater Toronto Area is bracing for a messy Friday morning commute as Environment Canada forecasts a mix of snow, freezing rain, and ice pellets. A special weather statement has been issued for most of the GTA, stretching from Brampton to Oshawa, cautioning residents about potentially hazardous travel conditions.
The national weather agency anticipates between two and five centimetres of snow or ice pellets, with the risk of freezing rain, starting early Friday and lasting into the early afternoon. Halton Region is under a yellow warning, with forecasters expecting two to five millimetres of ice buildup due to freezing rain. Temperatures are expected to rise above zero later in the morning, which should transition the precipitation to rain.
Residents are being warned to expect slippery roads and walkways, increasing the risk of injuries and potential traffic delays. Power outages are also a possibility in the Halton Region. CityNews meteorologist Jessie Uppal noted that winds are expected to pick up throughout the day, with gusts reaching 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.
While it's too early to predict the specifics, another storm system is expected to arrive on Sunday, potentially bringing a mix of snow, ice pellets, freezing rain, and rain. Commuters are advised to check weather conditions before heading out and to allow for extra travel time.
