Environment Canada issues Winter Storm Warning for Vaughan and Richmond Hill as well as Markham and Newmarket and rest of York telling residents to 'make an emergency plan'

Potential flash freezing is possible as temperatures are expected to drop Friday morning

Yorkregion.com
Dec. 23, 2022
Giulia Orsino

Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for York Region, including Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, and Newmarket. The warning states significant snowfall, flash freezing and strong winds going into the holiday weekend.

Precipitation is expected to start late Thursday afternoon or early Thursday evening. Temperatures are expected to drop Friday morning, resulting in potential flash freezing.

Friday morning (Dec. 23) is expected to bring snow and extensive blowing snow with snowfall amounts expected to reach 10-15 cm by Friday evening.

Wind gusts can potentially hit 90 to 100 km/h, creating reduced visibility as a result of blowing snow, the warning states.

Travel is expected to be "hazardous" due to reduced visibility as well as icy and slippery roads. The warning is asking drivers to avoid travelling if possible, despite the holiday weekend.

This weather warning is an upgrade from the Special Weather Statement issued for York earlier in the week.

Public Safety Canada is encouraging everyone to make an emergency plan and make an emergency kit.

"Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop," the warning states. "Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight."