The March 5 weather freezing rain risk in Southern Ontario could bring slippery conditions across parts of the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding regions, including communities in Durham Region.
Environment Canada says Thursday’s forecast will begin with mostly cloudy skies across southern Ontario, with the possibility of freezing drizzle developing later in the afternoon. Several cities across the Greater Toronto Area, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Oshawa, Pickering, and Halton Hills, may experience changing weather conditions as temperatures hover around the freezing mark.
Forecasters are predicting a 40 percent chance of freezing drizzle in the afternoon, which could create hazardous conditions on roads, sidewalks, and other surfaces. Freezing drizzle occurs when light rain falls and freezes upon contact with surfaces that are at or below the freezing temperature. Even small amounts can lead to icy patches that increase the risk of slips, falls, and traffic incidents.
Daytime temperatures across the region are expected to remain relatively cold. In areas such as Mississauga and much of the GTA, the high temperature is expected to reach around 1 degree Celsius. While temperatures slightly above freezing may help limit ice buildup in some locations, cooler surfaces may still allow freezing drizzle to accumulate.
In addition to the risk of freezing precipitation, winds are expected to pick up throughout the day. Environment Canada says wind gusts across the Greater Toronto Area could reach up to 50 kilometres per hour, which may make outdoor conditions feel colder and create additional challenges for drivers and pedestrians.
Residents across Durham Region, including Oshawa and Pickering, are encouraged to use caution when travelling during the afternoon and evening hours. Drivers should be prepared for possible slippery roads, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces that freeze more quickly.
Thursday evening could bring another round of changing conditions. Rain is expected to move into parts of southern Ontario later in the evening, with precipitation possibly continuing until around midnight. However, there remains a risk of freezing rain during the evening and overnight hours, particularly if surface temperatures remain below freezing.
Overnight temperatures are forecast to remain fairly steady at approximately 1 degree Celsius in many areas across the GTA and southern Ontario.
Weather experts advise residents to stay updated with local forecasts and take precautions during periods of freezing precipitation. Slower driving speeds, increased following distances, and wearing appropriate footwear when walking outdoors can help reduce risks associated with icy conditions.
Looking ahead to Friday, conditions are expected to remain mostly cloudy across southern Ontario. Temperatures may rise slightly, with daytime highs forecast to reach around 6 degrees Celsius.
However, forecasters are also predicting a 60 percent chance of rain showers later Friday evening, followed by an overnight low near 7 degrees Celsius.
Environment Canada continues to monitor the developing weather system and encourages residents across the region to stay informed as conditions evolve.
