A major winter storm has led to widespread school bus cancellations across southern Ontario on Wednesday, February 18. Freezing rain, ice pellets, and snow are expected to create hazardous driving conditions, and the storm has prompted several school boards to cancel buses, while keeping schools open for students.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the storm will bring icy and slippery conditions, particularly affecting areas west of Toronto. Ice build-up of a few millimetres is possible, with freezing rain expected to persist for several hours. The storm has also raised concerns about reduced visibility and the danger of icy roadways, which prompted many school boards to cancel transportation services.
The Durham Region School Board and Durham Catholic District School Board are among the school boards affected by this winter storm. Durham Student Transportation Services announced that buses have been cancelled in all four zones, including Brock, Uxbridge, Scugog, and the areas of Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa. Despite the bus cancellations, schools will remain open for students. Parents and guardians have been advised to make alternative transportation arrangements for their children if necessary.
Other affected areas in southern Ontario include the Peel District School Board and Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, which have cancelled all buses across all zones as a precautionary measure. Both school boards have confirmed that schools will remain open. Similarly, the Toronto District School Board and Toronto Catholic District School Board have cancelled all school buses, but schools will remain operational.
In Hamilton, the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board and the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board have not only cancelled buses but also closed all schools due to the inclement weather. In contrast, Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic District School Board have cancelled buses, but their schools and other facilities remain open.
The weather event has also prompted additional cautionary measures in the area. Local authorities have urged residents to be vigilant while traveling, as roads, bus and train platforms, and parking areas may become icy and slippery. Environment Canada’s warning about freezing rain and ice pellets has raised concerns about potential delays in travel and transportation.
The winter storm, which is affecting several regions across southern Ontario, is expected to cause disruptions in daily activities. However, officials are working to minimize the impact on commuters and students. Local residents are advised to stay updated on any changes in road conditions, and to allow extra time when traveling or navigating through icy conditions.
