Toronto faced a monumental snowstorm over the weekend, marking the city’s highest snowfall ever recorded. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) experienced a staggering 61 centimeters of snow in downtown Toronto and 88 centimeters at Pearson International Airport by Monday. This storm shattered the previous single-day record set in 1944, leaving significant disruptions in its wake.
Snowstorm Impact and Community Response
The blizzard led to the cancellation of classes across the region, as schools closed due to hazardous conditions. Local officials reported that snow removal would take several days. Mayor Olivia Chow announced that snow plow crews were working continuously to clear the streets, having completed a full cycle by Monday morning.
City Manager Paul Johnson described this weather event as “a major event,” emphasizing that recovery efforts would not be resolved quickly. Plowing was expected to be largely complete by Tuesday, with snow removal starting after.
Record Snowfall Statistics
- 61 cm of snow fell downtown.
- A total of 88 cm recorded at Pearson International Airport.
- 46 cm of snow accumulated in a single day on Sunday.
- At least 30 reported fatalities due to related incidents in the U.S.
Transit System Disruptions
Public transportation was severely affected. The Toronto Transit Commission reported multiple service disruptions, including subway closures and limited bus services. Additionally, the Ontario Provincial Police responded to about 200 collisions and 150 reports of vehicles stuck in ditches.
Community Activities Amidst the Snow
While many struggled with the challenges posed by the snow, others embraced the opportunity for winter fun. Families took to local parks for activities like sledding and building snow forts. Community members connected over the weather, sharing hot drinks and experiences in the snowy landscape.
- Kids sledded in parks such as Trinity Bellwoods and Ramsden.
- Residents assisted neighbors in snow clearing efforts.
- Local cafés and shops, like Sonndr Café and Ed’s Real Scoop, saw increased foot traffic as families sought warm treats.
Looking Ahead
As residents tackle this historic snowfall, forecasts indicate that temperatures will remain cold, delaying hopes for a quick melt. With city officials assuring the public of their commitment to snow removal, the community remains resilient, uniting in shared experiences of the winter storm.
