The City of Toronto is activating its new Major Snow Event Response Plan (MSERP) and declaring a Major Snowstorm Condition and Significant Weather Event starting at 5 p.m. today in response to severe winter weather.
Snowfall that began last night is expected to continue over the weekend, with 30-43 centimetres of snow today and tomorrow with additional snow forecasted over the weekend. The declarations will come into effect at 5 p.m. today.
New in 2026
The new Major Snow Event Response Plan (MSERP) is a comprehensive, city-wide emergency framework designed to ensure Toronto is better prepared for large-scale snowstorms. Key features include:
Major Snowstorm Condition
A Major Snowstorm Condition is where snow-specific bylaws come into effect specific to keeping the city moving and residents safe, during a major snowfall.
While the declarations are in effect, parking on roads designated as snow routes is prohibited. This helps City crews clear and remove snow piles that obstruct traffic flow, interfere with pedestrians and parking, and obstruct sightlines. Emergency service vehicles rely on clear roads to respond quickly to emergencies.
Vehicles parked on snow routes will be towed at the owner’s expense during a declared event. Towed vehicles can be located via Toronto Police Services at 416-808-2222. Cars parked on a designated snow route during a declared event are subject to fines up to $500. A list and map of snow routes are on the City’s website: https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/streets-parking-transportation/road-maintenance/winter-maintenance/major-snow-event/
Significant Weather Event
The significant increase in snow means it takes longer than usual to clear city roads, sidewalks and bicycle lanes. Because of this, the City is also declaring a Significant Weather Event. Under this the City is exempt from Provincial service levels for winter maintenance, as per provincial regulations: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/060612 and snow clearing focusses on prioritization for community safety.
As needed and based on conditions, the City will remove snow to designated storage sites in areas that have capacity issues. Snow removal operations commence as soon as the snow stops falling and planned plowing operations are complete.
Both declarations will be cancelled as soon as roadways are deemed safe.
Advice for the public
While the Major Snowstorm Condition is in effect, the City encourages the public to leave their vehicles at home and use public transit where possible. More information will be posted on the websites of TTC (https://www.ttc.ca/news/2025/February/TTC-prepared-for-heavy-snowfall-today) and GO Transit (https://www.gotransit.com/en).
Residents are asked to remain patient as snow clearing operations are active across the city, but due to the volume of snow, progress will take longer than usual. Check toronto.ca/winter for regular updates.
Road users should expect delays, slippery conditions and poor visibility due to the light, blowing snow. If driving, slow down, follow at a safe distance and use gentle braking, steering and acceleration. Road users should also keep a safe distance from snow clearing equipment and crews to let them complete their work safely and efficiently.
Follow the City on X to get the latest updates via @cityoftoronto. Residents can view plowing operations as they occur, with up to a four-hour delay, at toronto.ca/plowTO.
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