Freezing rain expected in Toronto could have 'significant impact' on rush hour traffic: Environment Canada

Residents of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) could face a messy commute on Tuesday morning.

Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for the city of Toronto and says that there could be a “significant impact on rush hour traffic” as a result.

It says that the freezing rain will begin early Tuesday morning before changing over to light rain by late morning or early in the afternoon.

“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Slow down driving in slippery conditions,” the warning states. “Watch for taillights ahead and maintain a safe following distance.”

The city of Vaughan has declared a “significant weather event” in advance of the expected freezing rain.

“A freezing rain warning is issued when freezing rain is expected to pose a hazard to transportation or property or when freezing rain is expected for at least two hours,” the city said in a release.

“The buildup of ice on surfaces can create unsafe conditions, such as downed trees and powerlines, and slippery sidewalks and roads.”

The release goes on to say that residents are advised to take precautions, including delaying travel when possible.

Environment Canada says that the temperature will hover around the freezing mark for much of Tuesday morning before climbing to 4 C later in the day.

It says that “ice accretion up to a few millimetres” will be possible on untreated surfaces as a result of the freezing rain.