Toronto Braces for Snow, Strong Winds, and Extreme Cold Through Next Week
A special weather statement and cold warning are in effect for Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as a potent winter system brings the threat of hazardous travel conditions and dangerously low temperatures. Residents are urged to prepare for significant snowfall, powerful wind gusts, and a prolonged period of frigid wind chills that could pose a risk to vulnerable populations.
Severe Weather Conditions Expected
A low-pressure system is forecast to move into the region today, bringing with it the potential for 4 to 8 centimeters of snow by this evening. Coupled with the snowfall, a cold front will sweep through the area, generating wind gusts of up to 80 km/h. These conditions are expected to create reduced visibility for drivers due to blowing snow, particularly during Friday’s afternoon rush hour. A photograph from February 6, 2026, shows challenging conditions on the westbound QEW at Hurontario Street in Mississauga.
According to the national weather agency, the combination of snow and wind will make travel treacherous. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution and allow for extra travel time.
Plunging Temperatures and Cold Warnings
While Toronto will experience a high of -4 C today, a dramatic temperature drop is anticipated overnight. A cold warning, designated as a yellow alert, has been issued due to a “prolonged period of very cold wind chills.” Saturday’s forecast calls for a high of -13 C, but the temperature will feel like -31 C in the morning and -22 C in the afternoon. Sunday is expected to be slightly milder, with a high of -9 C.
“Extreme cold puts everyone at risk,” a senior official stated. “Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.” Individuals are encouraged to watch for symptoms of cold-related illness, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain, and weakness, and to check on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors.
City Resources Available
In response to the forecasted cold, the City of Toronto’s Warming Centres, surge shelter spaces, and additional shelter capacity remain open. Daytime drop-in centers are also offering extended hours to provide respite from the cold.
https://twitter.com/cityoftoronto/status/1754888987654321152
Safety Precautions Urged
Environment Canada is also advising residents to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, including extra blankets and jumper cables. The agency warns of the risk of frostbite during extreme cold, advising people to watch for color changes in fingers and toes, pain, numbness, tingling, or swelling. If these symptoms appear, individuals should move indoors and begin warming the affected areas. Outdoor workers are urged to take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up.
CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter indicated that Torontonians should prepare for these conditions to persist for the next week. “We’re welcoming another round of cold and snow today,” he said Friday. “But, there is hope for more comfortable days ahead. Just don’t pack away the parkas quite yet. If you’re hoping to shed layers, set your sights on the lead up to the Family Day weekend. Until then, any relief will be short-lived.”
