A significant snowfall, with accumulations of 20 to 30 centimeters or more, is anticipated across Ontario, particularly southern regions. Published on January 24, 2026, at 12:37 AM, the forecast warns of heavy snow and near-whiteout conditions expected to develop on Sunday, making travel inadvisable.
As a major winter storm approaches from the United States, residents should prepare for the likelihood of considerable snowfall this weekend, especially on Sunday (for detailed updates, check out the weather network's forecasts). This storm is poised to blanket the area in a thick layer of snow during the day, potentially leading to significant travel disruptions, including delays on highways and at airports.
This weekend could be an ideal time to stay indoors with a good book or enjoy some cozy gaming as southern Ontario braces for substantial snowfall. Moisture moving northward will mix with the frigid air that has settled over the eastern part of Canada, setting the stage for widespread heavy snow.
Snowfall is expected to begin gradually on Sunday morning, continuing into Monday morning, with the most intense snowfall likely occurring during the afternoon and evening hours in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Temperatures are predicted to drop to between -10 and -20 degrees Celsius, which typically leads to light, fluffy snow that can accumulate quickly, posing challenges for snowplows trying to keep roads clear. Additionally, a cold easterly wind blowing off Lake Ontario will generate lake-effect snow, affecting various parts of the GTA. While there’s some uncertainty regarding the exact locations of the heaviest snow band, areas ranging from Oakville to Toronto and up to Pickering could experience severe impacts.
The areas directly under this lake-enhanced snow band are likely to see the most significant accumulations, with totals exceeding 20 to 30 centimeters and the potential for complete whiteout conditions.
For communities situated north of Highway 407, such as London, Barrie, and those extending east toward Ottawa, snowfall amounts from this system could range from 10 to 20 centimeters by Monday morning. It’s important to note that any snow that accumulates during this period is expected to remain as temperatures will stay well below freezing until the end of the month.
Next week, residents can look forward to extremely cold temperatures, with daytime highs primarily in the minus teens and nighttime lows frequently dropping into the -20s. These colder-than-normal conditions are expected to last into the early days of February. While a return to seasonal temperatures may occur around February 5, another shift back to colder-than-usual weather could happen by mid-February.
Stay informed by following The Weather Network for ongoing updates about the weather conditions throughout Ontario.
