Drivers in the Greater Toronto Area are being warned of poor winter road conditions, as blowing snow may suddenly reduce visibility.
The city remains under a special weather statement that was issued on Friday afternoon. Environment Canada says an Arctic cold front is moving through the region, bringing with it gusty winds and two centimetres of snow.
"These winds combined with scattered flurries and freshly fallen snow will likely result in some local blowing snow and driving snow, especially over exposed areas," the national weather agency said in a statement. "Motorists should be prepared for poor winter driving conditions."
As of 6 p.m., Environment Canada says it was -10 C, but with the wind chill it felt more like -21 C. The mercury with the wind chill is expected to drop to a low of -25 C overnight.
Earlier in the day, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health issued an extreme cold alert. David McKeown warned that exposed skin can freeze quickly, and those spending time outdoors are at risk of hypothermia.
Residents are advised to call or visit vulnerable friends and family members during the cold alert. Infants, the elderly and the homeless are most at risk during extremely cold weather. Those with pre-existing heart and respiratory illnesses are also at risk.
McKeown suggests residents wear layers, hats, mittens and boots, opting for wool or synthetic fabrics over cotton. Avoid alcohol, which can increase blood blow, and reschedule outdoor activities, he said in a statement Friday.
As a result of the cold weather, 13 of the TTC's streetcars are inoperable. The TTC has called in extra buses to help service the 502 Downtowner and 503 Kingston streetcar lines.
A special weather statement has also been issue for a number of other areas, including:
- Halton-Peel
- Hamilton
- Waterloo-Wellington
- Peterborough-Kawartha Lakes
- York-Durham
