The City of Toronto is activating its Major Snow Event Response Plan (MSERP) and declaring a Major Snowstorm Condition and Significant Weather Event, effective immediately.
Snowfall that began earlier this morning is expected to continue into tomorrow morning, with 30 centimetres or more anticipated in parts of Toronto over a 24-hour period.
Torontonians are encouraged to refrain from unnecessary travel and stay in place wherever possible. Continuous plowing is happening around the clock across Toronto. Where possible, residents and visitors are asked to consider transit as road conditions may be diminished.
Major Snowstorm Condition:
Parking on snow routes is prohibited while a Major Snowstorm Condition declaration is in effect. Snow routes are signposted with permanent “snow route” signage, including on all roads with streetcar tracks.
These parking prohibitions help 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 and transit vehicles rely on the routes to keep Toronto moving.
Drivers are reminded to avoid parking where temporary orange “No Parking – Snow Removal” signs are posted as crews will be removing the snow from these areas within 24 hours of the sign being posted. Vehicles parked on streets with these temporary signs could be fined $100 or towed and impounded at the owner’s expense. Towed vehicles can be located via the Toronto Police Service at 416-808-2222.
Where possible, drivers are asked to use off-street parking to help keep roads clear for faster snow removal.
Significant Weather Event
The significant increase in snow means it may take longer than usual to clear roads, sidewalks and bicycle lanes. Because of this, the City is 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 focuses on prioritization for community safety.
Major Snow Event Response Plan
The MSERP declaration helps ensure Toronto is prepared to respond to large-scale snowstorms by:
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 TTC and GO Transit websites.
Residents are asked to remain patient as snow clearing operations are active across the city. 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, poor visibility, and blowing snow. If driving, slow down, follow at a safe distance and use gentle braking, steering and acceleration. Road users and pedestrians should keep a safe distance from snow clearing equipment to allow crews to 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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