Toronto residents spent Monday grappling with the aftermath of a historic snowfall that brought the city to a near standstill. Schools were closed, transit systems were disrupted, and hundreds of flights were cancelled as the city dug out from under 56 centimetres of snow – a single-day record, surpassing the previous high set in 1944, according to Environment Canada.
A City Under Snow
The storm, which blanketed downtown Toronto, impacted daily life across the region. Darryl Spector was among those assisting neighbours, helping to free a Mini Cooper stranded in the snow. Elsewhere, children took advantage of the conditions, turning Trinity Bellwoods Park’s “dog bowl” into a popular sledding hill. The storm is part of a larger weather system impacting parts of Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada, with freezing rain causing power outages for hundreds of thousands in the U.S. South and, tragically, at least 30 deaths reported in the U.S.
Pearson International Airport also recorded its highest daily snowfall on record Sunday, with 46 centimetres. The Toronto Transit Commission experienced significant disruptions, including subway closures and lengthy delays on bus routes. The Ontario Provincial Police responded to approximately 200 collisions and 150 reports of vehicles stuck in ditches in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas. A fatal incident occurred in Kitchener, where a vehicle left a ramp and fell onto a highway below.
City Response and Challenges
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow stated that crews were working “non-stop” to clear streets and sidewalks, having completed one full round of plowing as of Monday morning. Despite the scale of the snowfall, Mayor Chow indicated she did not anticipate requesting assistance from the military, a measure taken by her predecessor, Mel Lastman, during severe snowstorms in 1999. City Manager Paul Johnson acknowledged the magnitude of the event, stating, “You can’t get a storm of this magnitude and have it disappear in a 24-hour cycle.”
Officials are asking residents for patience, anticipating several days to fully clear the accumulated snow. While the city has touted improvements to its snow response plan, including increased crews and equipment, challenges remain. Some residents, like DoorDash driver Sarabjit Singh, faced hazardous conditions while working, and many pedestrians struggled with icy sidewalks.
Community Spirit Amidst the Storm
Despite the difficulties, many Torontonians embraced the snow, finding opportunities for connection and recreation. Residents helped neighbours shovel, children built snow forts, and some even took to cross-country skiing and snowboarding. “This weather gives everyone a common thing to connect over,” said Steen Starr, while walking her dog. Local businesses, like the Sonndr Café and Ed’s Real Scoop, adapted to the conditions, offering warm beverages and treats to those braving the elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the record snowfall amount in Toronto?
The storm on Sunday, December 17th, brought 56 centimetres of snow to downtown Toronto, breaking the previous single-day record of snowfall set in 1944, according to Environment Canada.
What is the city doing to address the snow removal?
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow stated that crews are working “non-stop” to plow streets and sidewalks, and City Manager Paul Johnson expects plowing to be largely complete by early Tuesday, with snow removal from streets beginning on Wednesday.
Were there any transportation disruptions?
Yes, the storm caused significant disruptions to transportation, including the cancellation of hundreds of flights at Pearson and Billy Bishop airports, major problems on Toronto Transit Commission routes, and numerous collisions and stranded vehicles reported by the Ontario Provincial Police.
As the cleanup continues, residents are bracing for colder-than-normal temperatures, with Environment Canada warning that the snowbanks are likely to remain for the foreseeable future. How will the experience of this historic snowfall shape future winter preparedness efforts in Toronto?
