toronto weather

Parts of Ontario will feel like almost -40 C this week

Pack on some extra layers and don't even think about stashing your mittens away just yet, because another blast of Arctic air is headed right for southern Ontario and is expected to keep temperatures in the minus teens this weekend.

According to a new report by The Weather Network, the region is preparing for yet another intense stretch of winter weather, with snow bursts, powerful wind gusts, and dangerously cold wind chills. Some areas north of the GTA expected to feel like nearly -40 degrees C.

The approaching clipper system, which is making its way down from northwestern Canada, is expected to arrive on Thursday, resulting in three to five centimetres of snow in some areas. Communities near Lake Huron and in eastern Ontario might see higher amounts between five and 10 centimetres.

"As the low-pressure system moves across Ontario, a strong frontal snowsquall will develop as Arctic air sweeps in behind a cold front. This squall could cause a rapid change from calm conditions to intense snow bursts, strong winds, and near whiteout conditions in some areas," the weather channel warns.

Along with the snow, a "surge of Arctic air" will result in frigid temperatures on Friday evening. Some areas in southern Ontario could even see temperatures dropping at a rate of 3 degrees C or more per hour overnight.

Overnight on Friday, Toronto temperatures are expected to feel like -32 degrees C. On Saturday afternoon, temperatures will warm up slightly, with a wind chill of -22 degrees C. The Arctic blast is expected to stay put throughout Super Bowl Sunday, when we'll see a high of just -14 degrees C.

"Prolonged exposure to these conditions increases the risk of frostbite, so limit time outdoors and dress in proper winter layers. Cold weather warnings are likely to be issued," The Weather Network warns.

Luckily, temperatures will warm up considerably next week, but there's a catch.

On Wednesday, Toronto is expected to see a high of 0 degrees C and a low of -5 degrees C, however, as the weather channel notes, the "shift in the jet stream" could bring "more active weather," meaning the trade-off for warmer conditions will be multiple types of precipitation, including freezing rain.

Still, relief is on the horizon. Environment and Climate Change Canada's (ECCC) three-month outlook for February to April predicts normal seasonal conditions as we transition from the winter season to spring.

Lead photo by

Elena Berd/Shutterstock


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