Toronto residents and visitors preparing to celebrate the New Year will face dangerously cold temperatures and blowing snow. Environment Canada has issued a warning for snow squalls as the city prepares for Wednesday night’s festivities.
Frigid Conditions Expected
The forecast calls for a high of -3 C on New Year’s Eve, but the wind chill will make it feel significantly colder – around -13 C throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to drop further overnight to a low of -15 C, with a wind chill approaching -20 C. CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter advised those celebrating outdoors to “bundle up,” noting it will feel like -18 C at midnight.
The severe weather is already impacting travel. NAV Canada reported delays for some flights going through Toronto Pearson International Airport Wednesday night. The organization stated its team is working to move aircraft “safely, and as quickly as possible,” and is urging passengers to verify their flight status with their airlines.
Cold Weather Continues into the New Year
The cold snap is not expected to dissipate quickly. Environment Canada is forecasting a high of -6 C on New Year’s Day, with a morning wind chill of -26 C, easing to -12 C in the afternoon.
In response to the conditions, the City of Toronto has opened two additional warming centres at the Cecil Community Centre and the Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre. These centres will open at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, joining five other warming centres already in operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the wind chill?
The wind chill is what the temperature feels like to the human body when factoring in the effect of the wind. Environment Canada reports that today Toronto will feel like -13 C, and at midnight, -18 C.
Are flights definitely delayed?
NAV Canada reported that the weather is playing a factor in the delay of some flights going through Toronto Pearson Wednesday night, and is urging travellers to check with their airlines.
Where are the warming centres located?
The City of Toronto has opened warming centres at the Cecil Community Centre and the Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre, in addition to five other existing locations. They can be found listed on the City of Toronto website.
As the New Year approaches, how will you prioritize safety and well-being amidst these challenging weather conditions?
