Environment Canada now puts Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, rest of York under Winter Weather Travel Advisory Jan. 9 warning residents to 'be prepared' for major snow and hazardous conditions

Yorkregion.com
Jan. 9, 2024
Louie Rosella

The Special Weather Statement that was in effect for York region has now been upgraded, according to Environment Canada.

The national weather agency has now issued a Winter Weather Travel Advisory that applies to Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Georgina, Newmarket and northern and southern York and is in effect for Tuesday (Jan. 9).

"This winter weather travel advisory has been upgraded from a Special Weather Statement that was previously in effect," Environment Canada said in its advisory to York residents, adding that "hazards" include 10-15 centimetres of snow, risk of freezing rain and hazardous travel conditions Tuesday and into Tuesday night for Georgina, Newmarket and northern York region.

"Snow associated with a major winter storm is expected to move into portions of southern Ontario on Tuesday. Snow may be heavy at times with a risk of freezing rain. The snow is expected to change to rain Tuesday night as temperatures rise above the freezing mark," the advisory states. "Difficult travel conditions will be likely, particularly later Tuesday and Tuesday night."

Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery, Environment Canada added.

For Vaughan, Markham and Richmond Hill, snowfall amounts of 5-10 centimetres are possible, although amounts may be lower closer to Lake Huron where snow may change to rain sooner, Environment Canada said in its advisory to southern York residents.

"Difficult travel conditions will be likely once the snow arrives. At this point, it appears that the heaviest snow will arrive after the morning commute, but that the afternoon commute could be significantly impacted," the advisory for southern York states. "Motorists should expect hazardous winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow."

"Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance," the advisory stated.