The calendar says spring, but Ontario’s skies tell a different story. With snow warnings piling up faster than icy drifts, it’s clear winter isn’t done with us yet.
Ontario residents may have been tempted to stash away their winter jackets and snow shovels, but Environment Canada’s latest advisories would kindly suggest otherwise. As snowflakes continue to swirl in areas like Toronto, London, and southern Georgian Bay, forecasters warn of up to ten centimetres of fresh accumulation in some regions. Forget tulips and sunny strolls; think snow boots and windshield scrapers.
The storm sweeping through Ontario brings not only snow but also a hefty dose of caution. Provincial police have already reported multiple vehicle collisions as icy roads and reduced visibility grip the province. This winter encore has many drivers gripping their steering wheels just as tightly. If you’re venturing out, prepare for slippery conditions and keep those hazard lights handy.
It’s not just the fresh snow creating challenges. Ontario is still reeling from the devastating ice storm that struck central and eastern parts of the province earlier this month. Communities like Peterborough and Orillia bore the brunt of the storm, with more than 35,000 customers still without power over a week later. Hydro One crews, numbering over 4,800 strong, are working tirelessly to restore electricity. Still, the damage—2,300 broken poles in hard-hit areas—is staggering.
The storm’s timing couldn’t have been worse. Strong winds and heavy rain following the initial freeze hampered repair efforts, leaving many residents literally and figuratively in the dark. For some, the return of power can’t come soon enough, especially as the relentless cold lingers.
So, why the late-season barrage of winter weather? Experts point to lingering cold fronts and a lack of spring’s usual moderating temperatures. While the thermometer will eventually catch up with the calendar, it seems Mother Nature isn’t ready to trade her snow globe for a bouquet of daisies just yet.
For Ontario residents, the key takeaway is clear: don’t put your winter jacket away just yet. Whether you’re scraping ice off your car, waiting for the lights to come back on, or simply trying to stay upright on a slippery sidewalk, winter remains a very present challenge. Stock up on salt, top up your antifreeze, and maybe keep that emergency kit in the car for a little longer.
With weather patterns as unpredictable as this, it’s a good reminder to stay informed and prepared. Winter may be overstaying its welcome, but as always, Ontarians will endure—with a shovel in one hand and a hot coffee in the other.
References:
More than 34,000 customers remain powerless after spring storm tears through Ontario
