Winter weather travel advisory in effect for Toronto with snow on the way
Winter weather travel advisory also in effect for city, Environment Canada says
Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for Toronto with snow in store for the city on Saturday.
Toronto could see between five and 10 centimetres of snow from Saturday afternoon to Saturday night, and the federal weather agency says there may reduced visibility in some areas.
Motorists are being urged to adjust their travel plans because driving conditions could be hazardous, Environment Canada said.
"Slow down driving in slippery conditions. Watch for taillights ahead and maintain a safe following distance," the federal weather agency said in the advisory.
Environment Canada said a fast moving low pressure system is bringing the snow. It is expected to move into southern Ontario from west to east on Saturday afternoon.
The forecast calls for the snow to taper to flurries overnight or early Sunday.
City officials, meanwhile, say Toronto crews and equipment are ready.
In a media bulletin on Friday, the city said it is monitoring the weather forecast and road conditions around the clock.
Crews and equipment will be deployed when necessary, the city said. Crews will salt roads when the snow starts to stick to the ground and plows will be sent out to clear snow off roads, starting with expressways, then major roads and transit routes and streets with hills.
"Everyone is asked to keep a safe distance from snow clearing equipment and crews to let them complete their work safely and efficiently," the city said.
Take TTC if weather gets messy, city says
The city said residents should consider taking public transit if the weather gets messy. If driving, motorists are urged to adjust to the conditions.
"Drivers are asked to plan their trip in advance, give themselves extra time, use gentle braking and acceleration and avoid parking on the street," the city said.
5 warming centres now open
As for shelter from the snow, the city said the weather forecast means its five warming centres continue to be open for people experiencing homelessness.
The city opens five warming centres when temperatures reach –5 C or when Environment Canada issues a winter weather event warning. Two more sites open in extreme cold at –15 C.
According to the city, its warming centres are one component of its winter services plan.
Through the plan, the city said it has also expanded several existing shelter and housing spaces, opened three 24/7 winter respite sites, including a 300-bed program at the Better Living Centre, and extended drop-in programs by 200 hours a week. These programs are open until April this year.
The city said its warming centres provide a place to rest, access meals, washroom facilities and referrals to emergency shelters with additional supports. They are available at:
- 136 Spadina Rd.
- 55 John St. (Metro Hall).
- 75 Elizabeth St.
- 12 Holmes Ave.
- 885 Scarborough Golf Club Rd.