Durham Region, Ontario — GO trains special schedule winter storm Durham impacting the transit service will operate on a special schedule across several regions, including Durham. The winter storm, which is expected to bring freezing rain and icy conditions, will cause significant delays and disruptions to scheduled services on February 18, 2026.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, storm warnings have been issued for cities and towns across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including Durham, as freezing rain is expected to accumulate in some areas. Durham Region residents, especially in cities like Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and Pickering, are being urged to prepare for icy conditions and possible disruptions in their daily commute.
Impact of the Winter Storm on GO Transit Services
GO Transit has issued an alert advising passengers to check the “Plan Your Trip” section on their website to verify updated schedules for GO train and bus services. The ongoing freezing rain could cause ice buildup on rail tracks, platforms, and bus stops, impacting the smooth operation of trains.
The special schedule for February 18 includes modified departure and arrival times to account for weather-related delays. GO Transit officials are warning that the freezing rain may cause delays across Durham as well as other areas, and commuters are strongly advised to allow extra time for travel.
“It’s essential for passengers to plan ahead and factor in additional travel time, as these weather conditions can slow down even the most reliable services,” a statement from GO Transit said.
Weather Warnings and Safety Tips for Commuters
The forecast predicts several hours of freezing rain in parts of Durham Region, particularly affecting highways and roads leading to transit hubs. Icy conditions on platforms and in parking areas will require extra caution. GO Transit has issued safety tips advising passengers to be careful when navigating busy areas like train stations, bus terminals, and platforms.
“Icy and snow-covered platforms can make surfaces slippery, which is why we urge everyone to take extra care when walking to and from the stations,” GO Transit spokesperson Emily Tran added. “Please avoid rushing, especially when weather conditions change quickly.”
In addition to safety concerns, passengers are also advised to keep up to date with real-time service alerts and to monitor weather warnings in the coming hours. Since conditions may worsen as the day progresses, GO Transit is providing regular updates on their website and through social media channels to ensure passengers are aware of the situation.
GO Transit: Preparing for Weather Challenges
Despite the challenges posed by the winter storm, GO Transit has reassured commuters that its goal is to keep disruptions to a minimum. “We always do our best to ensure that you get to your destination as close to your schedule as possible,” GO Transit’s official notice reads. “However, the safety of our passengers is our top priority, and that sometimes requires modifying schedules during extreme weather conditions.”
Commuters are encouraged to check the GO Transit website and app for real-time updates and to be prepared for potential delays and service changes. While GO Transit works to maintain service during this storm, passengers should plan for longer wait times and the possibility of altered train and bus schedules.
