Ontario Winter Storm

–UPDATE: Feb 18, 8:56 am —

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect across Southern Ontario, with freezing rain now actively impacting the London, Guelph, Hamilton and Niagara regions and extending north toward Lake Huron snowbelt areas.

Current Conditions and Forecast

• Freezing rain is expected to persist for 10 to 12+ hours, intensifying through the afternoon
• Wind gusts of 40 to 60 km/h accompany the system
• Ice accretion of 5 to 15+ mm is possible in higher-risk areas, including Orangeville, Fergus, Guelph, Cambridge, Brampton, Hamilton and Niagara
• Ice buildup is occurring on roadways, trees, sidewalks, signage and power lines
• Power outages and significant travel disruptions are anticipated

Operational Impact

Sustained freezing rain combined with gusting winds will create hazardous highway conditions, reduced speeds, and the potential for temporary road closures. Linehaul transit times, first and final mile service, and appointment-based deliveries may be affected throughout the day and into the evening as ice accumulation increases.

Our operations and safety teams are actively monitoring corridor conditions and adjusting dispatch, routing and dwell strategies to prioritize driver safety while minimizing service disruption.

If you have critical or time-sensitive freight moving through Southern Ontario, please connect with your account manager to review contingency options and updated ETAs.

–ORIGINAL POST–

Environment Canada has issued multiple hazardous weather alerts across Southern and Central Ontario ahead of a significant winter storm expected Wednesday, February 18.

Key Impacts by Region:

• Winter Storm Watches
  Barrie, Orillia, Midland, Simcoe County, Muskoka, and parts of York Region may receive 10 to 15 cm of snow along with several hours of freezing rain. Ice accretion of 2 to 5 mm is possible.
• Special Weather Statements
  The Greater Toronto Area, Hamilton, London, Niagara, and Durham are forecast to see 5 to 15 cm of snow mixed with freezing rain, with conditions deteriorating through the Wednesday evening commute.
• Freezing Rain Warnings
  Southwestern Ontario and the Dundalk Highlands could experience 5 to 10 mm of ice accretion, increasing the risk of hazardous road conditions and localized power outages.
• Fog Advisories
  Earlier fog advisories for London and Middlesex County have reduced visibility to near zero in some areas. Conditions are expected to transition to rain through the day.

Operational Outlook

Travel is expected to be difficult across much of Southern and Central Ontario, particularly on Wednesday afternoon and evening. Reduced speeds, temporary highway disruptions, and delays at pickup and delivery locations are possible as conditions evolve.

Our teams are actively monitoring highway conditions and adjusting routing and transit plans where necessary to protect service and safety.

If you have time-sensitive shipments moving through Ontario, please connect with your account manager to discuss contingency planning or any specific concerns.