TORONTO — February 6, 2024 — A slick and potentially dangerous Tuesday morning commute is shaping up for much of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, as Environment Canada has issued freezing rain warnings. Forget a gentle dusting; we’re talking about a layer of ice that could make even walking treacherous.
Freezing Rain Threatens GTHA Travel Tuesday
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A prolonged period of freezing rain is expected to impact travel across the region.
- Freezing rain warnings are in effect for Toronto, Hamilton, and surrounding areas.
- The freezing rain is expected to begin Tuesday morning and could last for several hours.
- Travel is expected to be hazardous due to icy road conditions.
- Temperatures are expected to rise later in the day, transitioning to rain.
So, what does this mean for your Tuesday? Expect slippery conditions on roads and sidewalks, potentially leading to school bus cancellations and significant traffic delays. The worst of it appears to be concentrated in the morning hours, but the duration of the freezing rain remains a key concern.
A: It’s rain that falls through a layer of sub-zero air, freezing on contact with surfaces that are at or below freezing. This creates a glaze of ice, making everything incredibly slippery.
Impact Across the Region
The freezing rain isn’t limited to Toronto. Environment Canada’s warnings cover a broad swath of Southern Ontario, including Hamilton, where a freezing rain warning was issued Monday evening. Orillia is also bracing for several hours of potential freezing rain, according to local reports.
The Weather Network reports that “tough travel” is likely, emphasizing the potential for “slippery, messy road conditions.” This isn’t just about driving; pedestrians should also exercise extreme caution.
What to Expect Hour by Hour
The freezing rain is anticipated to begin Tuesday morning, with the most intense periods lasting for several hours. While temperatures are expected to gradually rise throughout the day, transitioning the precipitation to rain, the initial impact will be significant. The timing of the temperature shift is crucial in determining the overall severity of the event.
Is it safe to drive in freezing rain? Absolutely not, unless absolutely necessary. If you must travel, reduce your speed significantly, increase your following distance, and be prepared for sudden stops. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
The combination of recent snowfall and the impending freezing rain creates a particularly hazardous situation. Any existing snowpack will become a solid sheet of ice, exacerbating the risks for both drivers and pedestrians.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves. Check local weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out, and prioritize safety above all else.
