Southern Ontario residents should prepare for unsettled conditions on Tuesday, March 3, as periods of snow and freezing rain move through the region, potentially impacting travel and outdoor plans.
Environment Canada says the day will begin with cloudy skies across much of the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding municipalities, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Oshawa, Burlington and Niagara Falls. Morning conditions are expected to remain overcast, with precipitation developing later in the day.
Forecasters are calling for a 40 to 60 per cent chance of light snow during the afternoon hours. Some areas — particularly Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Niagara Falls — may also see a risk of freezing rain, which could create slippery roadways and sidewalks.
In Durham Region, including Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax and Pickering, cloudy conditions are expected to dominate early in the day, with the potential for light snow as the system progresses eastward. While widespread freezing rain is not guaranteed across Durham, residents should be aware of the possibility of localized icy patches, especially during the afternoon and evening commute.
Temperatures on Tuesday will hover around seasonal averages. In Mississauga, the daytime high is expected to reach approximately 2 C, with similar temperatures forecast across much of southern Ontario. However, brisk winds in the morning will make it feel significantly colder. Wind chill values could dip as low as -13 C early in the day before gradually improving as temperatures rise.
As the system moves through Tuesday night, skies are expected to remain cloudy. Patchy fog may develop in some areas, including Mississauga. Hamilton is forecast to see a 30 per cent chance of snow overnight, along with a continued risk of freezing rain.
Overnight lows are expected to fall to around -5 C, though wind chills could make it feel closer to -9 C. Similar overnight conditions are anticipated in Durham Region and across the GTA.
Motorists are advised to use caution throughout the day, particularly if freezing rain develops. Even light ice accumulation can make roads, bridges and untreated surfaces hazardous. Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks during the evening hours.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, conditions are expected to improve. Sunshine is forecast to return with a high of 4 C and a low near 0 C in Mississauga, with comparable temperatures expected in Durham Region. The return of clear skies should help melt any lingering snow or ice.
Temperatures are forecast to warm further by the end of the week. By Friday, southern Ontario could see highs reaching 8 C, along with a chance of rain — a sign that more consistent spring-like weather may be on the way.
