'SUDDEN CHANGES': Environment Canada puts Vaughan and Markham as well as Richmond Hill, Newmarket, Aurora and rest of York under Winter Weather Travel Advisory warning of major snowfall

Hazards include heavy snow, with stern message for drivers.

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 15, 2024
Louie Rosella

Environment Canada on Wednesday night (Feb. 14) issued a winter weather travel advisory that applies to Vaughan, Markham and southern York region, along with Newmarket, Georgina and northern York region, that's in effect all day and night Thursday (Feb. 15).

The national weather agency says this will be the first "significant snowfall" in a few weeks, with "hazards" that include locally heavy snowfall in York with total accumulations of five to 10 centimetres, reduced visibility in heavy snow and strong northwesterly winds gusting up to 70 kilometres an hour Thursday evening into the night in all of York's municipalities.

"Snow is forecast to begin Thursday morning. The snow will continue through the day before tapering to lake effect flurries Thursday evening, particularly for areas north and west of the GTA," according to the advisory for York residents.

"Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather."

Environment Canada is also warning York residents to "consider postponing non-essential travel" until conditions improve.

"Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas," the advisory states.

This advisory comes in the midst of several road closures in place on highways across Vaughan, Markham and Richmond Hill this week that are expected to cause some traffic issues.

This has been a mild winter so far, according to The Weather Network.

However, the Ontario government, as well as other weather and travel agencies, say drivers should remember to stay safe during the colder months and be prepared for snowfall at all times, given its unpredictability in certain conditions.

Officials say motorists should get a maintenance check-up to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter, and also make sure your gas tank is always half-full.

Drivers should also ensure they have an ice-scraper and washer fluid in their vehicle at all times.