Residents across Durham Region and much of southern Ontario could see winter conditions return later this week as a powerful weather system is expected to move across the province.
According to Environment Canada, the forecast indicates that March snow in southern Ontario could bring between five and 15 centimetres of snowfall to parts of the region by Friday. The system may also bring strong winds, blowing snow and reduced visibility, which could make travel difficult.
Forecasters say a deep low-pressure system is expected to track across Ontario, potentially affecting a wide area stretching from northern communities down to the Greater Toronto Area, including Durham Region.
If the storm develops as currently projected, communities such as Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Whitby and other nearby areas could experience snowfall along with gusty winds.
Environment Canada warns that the combination of snowfall and winds reaching up to 80 kilometres per hour could create hazardous travel conditions on roads and highways. Blowing snow may reduce visibility and make driving more dangerous, particularly during peak travel times.
Loose outdoor objects may also be affected by the strong winds, prompting residents to secure items such as garbage bins or patio furniture.
The March snow in southern Ontario comes after several days of warmer temperatures that created spring-like conditions across the region. Many residents had started to enjoy milder weather before this new system appeared in the forecast.
Meteorologists say weather patterns during early spring can often shift quickly, bringing sudden changes that include snow, rain or mixed precipitation.
Despite the early forecast, Environment Canada notes there is still significant uncertainty regarding the exact path of the approaching storm system.
“The track of this low-pressure system is highly uncertain, so the area and amounts will likely change over the coming days,” Environment Canada said in its weather outlook.
Because of this uncertainty, snowfall amounts and the exact areas affected could shift as meteorologists continue to monitor the system.
While parts of southern Ontario may experience snowfall, the weather agency says confidence is currently higher that blowing snow will impact northeastern Ontario.
Earlier in the week, another weather system moved across southern Ontario bringing rain to many areas and freezing rain further north.
Weather experts say these shifting systems highlight how unpredictable late winter conditions can be in Ontario, particularly during the transition from winter to spring.
Residents across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area are encouraged to monitor weather updates and forecasts throughout the week, especially if they plan to travel on Friday.
Drivers should also prepare for the possibility of snow-covered roads, strong winds and reduced visibility, which could affect commuting conditions.
Although the March snow in southern Ontario may not bring a major winter storm, the potential for snowfall and strong winds serves as a reminder that winter weather can still occur even as spring approaches.
