Impactful snow and freezing rain puts Ontario's Boxing Day at risk

A weather system is expected to affect Ontario on Boxing Day, potentially disrupting travel plans. While the exact storm track and impacts remain uncertain, parts of the province could see 5-20 cm of snow, while others may face significant freezing rain, ice pellets, or a mix of precipitation types.

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The storm’s track will determine the division between snowfall and icy conditions across the province. Southwestern Ontario is likely to experience primarily rain, mixed with some freezing rain.

Stay tuned for updates as the forecast evolves, and be sure to monitor any weather warnings in your area.

Messy winter weather to hit Great Lakes region on Boxing Day Friday

A moisture-packed storm will move into the Great Lakes on Friday, bringing a mix of snow and icy precipitation to Ontario.

Northern Ontario is expected to see an all-snow event starting Friday morning, spreading into eastern Ontario by the afternoon and evening, with 5-20 cm possible. The heaviest snowfall will be between Thunder Bay and Wawa, impacting travel along Lake Superior's north shore.

In southern Ontario, an icy setup is forecast as mild, moist air from the low-pressure system clashes with dense, cold air near the surface.

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Precipitation type will depend on the thickness of the warm air layer and proximity to warm or cold air.

In Windsor, periods of freezing rain and rain are likely. For areas such as Sarnia, London, and Simcoe, freezing rain is possible, with 5-15 mm expected in south-central Ontario.

Areas north of London, as well as Hamilton, Kitchener, and Goderich, will likely see accumulating ice pellets.

From Barrie to Toronto and Niagara, we may begin to see snow late Friday afternoon before transitioning to ice pellets in the evening. Snowfall accumulations could range from 5-15 cm before the system exits the region Saturday morning.

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Brace for possible power outages and travel delays

Potential impacts include isolated power outages, travel slowdowns, and delays.

Although there is good confidence in the all-snow event for northern and eastern Ontario, uncertainty remains regarding exact precipitation types and impacted locations in the south. A shift of just 0.5°C could significantly alter outcomes, although as we inch closer to Boxing Day, forecasters are becoming more confident in the forecast. Be sure to monitor updates and plan accordingly if you are travelling.

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Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across Ontario