Southern Ontario: School Bus Cancellations and Closures for Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Brennen Perry

Published: March 19, 2025 - 11:02 PM

**Please refresh your page every few minutes to receive the latest update**

Cancellation & Closure Map (English Public and Catholic Schools)

Please note: School board boundaries are a rough estimate. Don’t use this map to determine what school board or weather zone you live in as accuracy isn’t guaranteed.

• Green = No Cancellations

• Red = Cancellations (Click for More Details)

• Purple = School Closures (Click for More Details)

List of Cancellations & Closures

English Public and Catholic Schools

• Near North Public & Nipissing-Parry Sound CathoIic: Bussing for all weather corridors are cancelled today.

• Renfrew County Public & Renfrew County Catholic: Zone 4 Madawaska area transportation services only are cancelled.

French Schools

• Le Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario (CSPNE) & Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord: Bussing for all weather corridors are cancelled today.

'Snow Day' Forecast: Heavy Snow Likely to Cancel School Buses in Parts of Southern Ontario on Tuesday

For an updated list of school bus cancellations & school closures, please visit our live article: https://instantweatherinc.com/article/2025/4/8/bus-cancellations

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE

As we move into April, the chances of school bus cancellations continue to shrink with each passing day, especially as we begin to leave winter weather behind. However, winter isn’t done with us just yet. A late-season blast of snow could bring another round of disruptions to parts of Central and Eastern Ontario, with snowfall totals potentially reaching up to 25 cm over the next 24 hours.

The greatest potential for school bus cancellations lies in the northern sections of Central and Eastern Ontario, where snowfall warnings are currently in effect from Environment Canada. Areas most at risk include the Near North region—covering East Parry Sound and North Bay—as well as North Hastings under Tri-Board, and Renfrew County.

In these regions, the chance of a snow day is estimated at over 75%. However, while conditions are certainly favourable, the expected snowfall amounts sit right at the borderline for cancellations, so there isn’t enough confidence to push the probability up to 90%.

In the Ottawa region, even though a snowfall warning is also in place, the area is predominantly urban and has a higher tolerance for winter conditions when it comes to school transportation decisions. Historically, it takes a significant snowfall event to warrant widespread cancellations. Because of this, the probability has been set at a lower 25%.

That said, some weather models are showing the potential for more than 20 cm of snow in the area, and if those more aggressive forecasts come to pass, Ottawa’s snow day risk could increase sharply overnight.

Moving further south and west, the likelihood of school bus cancellations drops noticeably. Snowfall totals in these areas are expected to be much lower and likely won't reach the levels needed to trigger cancellations.

An exception to this could be communities along the Lake Huron shoreline. In these areas, heavier lake-effect snow bands may develop overnight, especially when combined with strong wind gusts, creating blowing snow and reduced visibility. Because of this, we've assigned a slight 25% chance of cancellations in those zones.

Meanwhile, no significant impacts are expected across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) or Deep Southwestern Ontario. These regions are forecast to receive only a dusting of snow at most, with many areas likely to see little to no accumulation over the next 24 hours. As a result, we aren’t anticipating any school bus cancellations in these parts of the province.

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Disclaimer: Instant Weather has zero authority when it comes to bus and school closures.

It is completely up to the school boards, bus companies, local authorities, and parents to decide what is best for their children. This is our best guess based on our forecast.

The Never-Ending Winter Continues for Southern Ontario; Snowy System Could Dump Up to 25cm by Tuesday

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Residents across Southern Ontario, especially in the snowbelt regions, have certainly had their fair share of winter weather this season. From intense snow squalls back in December to the crippling ice storm that hit parts of Central Ontario just last month, it's no wonder that many are ready to say goodbye to winter.

Unfortunately, it seems that Mother Nature didn’t get the memo. Spring-like weather remains out of sight for at least the next week. Instead, the region is facing below-seasonal temperatures, with many areas struggling to reach the freezing mark during the day. On top of that, a fast-moving weather disturbance is currently affecting Northeastern Ontario with heavy snow. This system is expected to push into Southern Ontario late Monday as a cold front makes its way through the region.

Snowfall will intensify overnight and continue into Tuesday morning. The heaviest bands are expected across northern portions of Central Ontario and through the Ottawa Valley. Snowfall totals in these areas could easily exceed 15 cm, with some locations possibly seeing as much as 25 cm.

Elsewhere in Southern Ontario, lake enhancement and lake effect snow behind the system could lead to locally higher amounts—anywhere from 5 to 15 cm is possible around Lake Huron and along the southern shores of Georgian Bay.

Strong wind gusts of up to 80 km/h are also expected Monday evening into the early overnight hours around Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, and parts of Central Ontario. These gusts may create blowing snow and significantly reduce visibility at times.

More concerning, though, is the impact these winds could have on restoration efforts in areas still reeling from last month’s devastating ice storm. With nearly 50,000 Hydro One customers still without power after 10 days, additional outages are possible as the already fragile infrastructure struggles under the pressure of these gusty conditions.

HOURLY SNOWFALL RATE/intensity - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

As of Monday evening, heavy snow continues to fall across the Sudbury and North Bay regions, both of which have seen a significant dumping of snow throughout the day. By the time conditions begin to improve later this evening, localized snowfall totals will likely surpass 20 cm.

Further south, a sharp cold front is pushing a line of heavy snow across Southern Ontario over the next few hours. Along with the sudden drop in temperatures, this front could bring a quick burst of intense snowfall, leading to brief whiteout conditions and rapid accumulation.

Temperatures are still hovering just above freezing ahead of the front, which should help limit how much of the snow sticks at first, as the wet snow may melt upon contact with the relatively warm ground.

ESTIMATED WIND GUSTS- MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Another concern this evening will be the development of strong wind gusts near Lake Simcoe and extending into parts of the Golden Horseshoe. Wind speeds could reach 60 to 80 km/h in localized areas.

While those wind speeds wouldn’t normally cause widespread issues, the combination of gusty winds and heavy snow could lead to pockets of blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially on the roads.

This area is also still recovering from the recent ice storm, with ongoing power restoration efforts in regions like Simcoe County, Peterborough, and the Kawartha Lakes. The added strain from tonight’s strong winds could cause further damage to the already weakened power grid in those communities.

HOURLY SNOWFALL RATE/intensity - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

After midnight, the focus of the heaviest snow will shift eastward into the Ottawa Valley. Persistent, moderate to heavy snow is expected across the region, especially in and around the City of Ottawa. One key area we’ll be closely monitoring is just west of Ottawa, where forecast models are showing the potential for a pocket of very heavy snowfall.

Communities including Algonquin Park, Barry’s Bay, Pembroke, and Petawawa could be directly impacted by this locally intense band of snow. If it shifts slightly east, it may sneak into Ottawa itself—something that could have a major effect on the Tuesday morning commute. Snowfall rates in this band may exceed 5 cm per hour, leading to near-whiteout conditions.

Additionally, more localized lake-effect snow bands could develop off Lake Huron and Georgian Bay early Tuesday. Based on current guidance, one of these bands may impact parts of Huron and Perth counties, with a small chance of reaching the London area, though whether or not London sees any snow will depend on exactly where the band sets up. Some weaker snow activity is also expected near the southern shores of Georgian Bay, including places like Owen Sound, Meaford, and Collingwood.

HOURLY SNOWFALL RATE/intensity - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

By Tuesday morning, snowfall will begin to taper off from west to east across the region. The Ottawa Valley will continue to see steady snow past sunrise, although it should begin to lighten up by early afternoon.

Lingering lake effect snow flurries may continue near Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, but are also expected to wind down by late morning as the system finally pulls away.

ESTIMATED WIND CHILL - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

In addition to the snow, Tuesday will bring a blast of bitterly cold Arctic air to much of Southern Ontario. This late-season cold snap will make it feel especially harsh for those heading out in the morning. Once the wind chill is factored in, it could feel like the -20s across parts of Central Ontario.

Make sure to dress warmly, especially if you've already switched to a spring wardrobe. It might be time to dig out that heavy winter coat once again.

The frigid temperatures also pose an added risk for anyone still without power following the ice storm. Be sure to check in on friends, family, and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold, and if needed, make use of warming centres set up in the hardest-hit communities.

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE

The highest snowfall totals from this system are expected in the northern sections of Central and Eastern Ontario, including places like Sudbury, North Bay, northern Muskoka, Algonquin Park, Pembroke, Renfrew, and Ottawa. These areas are likely to receive 15 to 25 cm of snow in total, including the accumulation that began earlier on Monday.

Elsewhere in Central Ontario and extreme Eastern Ontario, along with areas east of Lake Huron, snowfall totals are expected to fall in the 5 to 15 cm range. The wide range is due to uncertainty about how much snow will stick, as the heaviest snowfall is forecast while temperatures hover near or just above freezing. Affected areas include Grand Bend, Goderich, Kincardine, Grey-Bruce, Collingwood, Simcoe County, Muskoka, Bancroft, Brockville, and Cornwall.

For much of Southern Ontario, less than 5 cm is expected, with the Golden Horseshoe likely seeing no more than a dusting. In Deep Southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, Chatham, and Sarnia, little to no accumulation is expected from this system.

⚠️ Flood Warnings Issued for Kitchener, Cambridge and More Ontario Communities on Thursday ☔️

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE image TO OPEN An interactive map

Heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt are triggering rising water levels across much of Southern Ontario, prompting multiple flood warnings and watches being issued since this past Friday. Conservation authorities and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) have issued alerts for various watersheds, warning that saturated ground conditions and increased runoff may lead to localized flooding. Residents in affected areas should remain vigilant as rivers and streams swell, with the risk of minor to moderate flooding in low-lying regions.

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New Flood Warnings

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is issuing a Flood Warning message for the City of Kitchener and the City of Cambridge. The Flood Warning message previously issued for West Montrose is being upgraded to Flood Warning Zone 2. The Flood Warning messages previously issued for Grand Valley, Waldemar, Drayton, the Village of Conestogo, New Hamburg, and Ayr remain in effect.

Weather forecast

Temperatures in the watershed have increased to double digits above freezing overnight and are expected to remain high for the remainder of the day. A mixed precipitation event, including snow, freezing rain, and rain, began yesterday and continued overnight throughout the watershed. This has resulted in approximately 40 to 80 mm of total precipitation and increased runoff throughout the watershed.

Flood Warning Message for the City of Kitchener

The Grand River is expected to overflow its banks midday Thursday, April 3, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Municipal flood coordinators in the City of Kitchener have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions.

Flood Warning Message for the City of Cambridge

The Grand River is expected to overflow its banks near Water Street/Highway 24 on midday Thursday, April 3. Municipal flood coordinators in the City of Cambridge have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions.

Flood Warning Message for West Montrose

River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 2 in West Montrose the afternoon of Thursday, April 3. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Woolwich have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.

Flood Warning Message for Grand Valley and Waldemar

River flows are expected to exceed channel capacity and peak midday Thursday, April 3. Municipal flood coordinators in Grand Valley and Waldemar have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions.

Flood Warning Message for Drayton

River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 1 in Drayton on Thursday, April 3, during the morning. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Mapleton have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.

Flood Warning Message for the Village of Conestogo

River flows are expected to reach flooding thresholds in the Village of Conestogo midday Thursday, April 3. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Woolwich have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions.

Flood Warning Message for New Hamburg

River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 2 in New Hamburg midday Thursday, April 3. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Wilmot have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.

Flood Warning Message for Ayr

River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 2 in Ayr on the morning of Friday, April 4. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of North Dumfries have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.

This message will remain in effect until 12 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025. 

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Flood Warnings

MNR Districts:

- Aurora, Midhurst, Owen Sound – *Flood Warning* (April 2, 2025, 12:30 PM)

- Minden, Parry Sound, Bracebridge – *Flood Warning* (March 28, 2025, 2:30 PM)

- Peterborough, Bancroft (Burnt and Black Rivers) – *Flood Warning* (March 28, 2025, 12:00 AM)

Conservation Authorities:

- Grand River – *Flood Warning* (April 3, 2025, 8:30 AM) NEW

- Nottawasaga Valley – *Flood Warning* (April 1, 2025, 1:30 PM)

- Otonabee Region – *Flood Warning* (April 2, 2025, 1:00 PM)

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Flood Watches

MNR Districts:

- Peterborough, Bancroft – *Flood Watch* (March 27, 2025, 10:00 AM)

Conservation Authorities:

- Ausable Bayfield – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 3:00 PM)

- Cataraqui Region – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 11:30 AM)

- Crowe Valley – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 2:00 PM)

- Essex Region – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 4:30 PM)

- Grey Sauble – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 11:00 AM)

- Hamilton Region – *Flood Watch* (March 31, 2025, 10:30 AM)

- Hamilton Region (High Great Lakes Level) – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 3:30 PM)

- Kawartha Region – *Flood Watch* (March 31, 2025, 12:00 AM)

- Kettle Creek – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 4:00 PM)

- Lower Trent – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 4:30 PM)

- Maitland Valley – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 10:30 AM)

- Mississippi Valley – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 4:00 PM)

- Niagara Peninsula – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 10:00 AM)

- Rideau Valley – *Flood Watch* (March 27, 2025, 4:15 PM)

- Saugeen Valley – *Flood Watch* (April 1, 2025, 12:00 AM)

- South Nation River – *Flood Watch* (March 28, 2025, 1:30 PM)

- St. Clair Region – *Flood Watch* (April 2, 2025, 11:00 PM)

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Watershed and Shoreline Conditions Statements

Water Safety Statements:

- Catfish Creek – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (April 2, 2025, 8:30 AM)

- Ganaraska Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (April 1, 2025, 3:30 PM)

- North Bay – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (March 28, 2025, 3:00 PM)

- Pembroke – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (March 28, 2025, 12:00 PM)

- North Bay-Mattawa – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (March 28, 2025, 2:30 PM)

- Raisin Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety* (March 24, 2025, 10:00 AM)

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Flood Outlook Statements

- Central Lake Ontario – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 12:00 AM)

- Credit Valley – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 11:30 AM)

- Halton Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 12:00 AM)

- Lake Simcoe Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 4:00 PM)

- Long Point Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 3:30 PM)

- Lower Thames Valley – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 2:00 PM)

- Quinte (Inland Lakes and Rivers) – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (March 27, 2025, 12:00 PM)

- Toronto and Region – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 1:30 PM)

- Upper Thames River – *Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook* (April 1, 2025, 2:30 PM)

- **Shoreline Conditions Statement – Storm Surge:**

- Catfish Creek – *Shoreline Conditions Statement – Storm Surge* (December 11, 2024, 12:00 AM)

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Flood Risks and Safety Tips

With continued snowmelt and upcoming rainfall, many rivers and streams remain at risk of rising beyond their banks, especially in central and eastern Ontario. The combination of warm temperatures and precipitation is accelerating runoff, leading to swollen waterways with reduced capacity to handle additional rainfall. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is expected, with localized road closures possible.

- Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts, special weather statements, and emergency alerts.

- Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding and never attempt to drive through flooded roads.

- Secure outdoor belongings that could be carried away by rising waters.

- If you live in a flood-prone area, prepare an emergency kit with essentials in case of evacuation.

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Final Thoughts:

As flood warnings and watches continue across parts of Southern Ontario, it's important for residents in affected areas to stay alert and prepared. The combination of rapid snowmelt, saturated ground conditions, and forecasted rainfall means that water levels could rise quickly, increasing the risk of localized flooding. Keep an eye on weather updates, follow official advisories, and take precautions to protect your home and safety. If you live in a flood-prone area, now is the time to review your emergency plan. Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s hope for drier days ahead!

Southern Ontario: School Bus Cancellations and Closures for Thursday, April 3, 2025

**Please refresh your page every few minutes to receive the latest update**

Cancellation & Closure Map (English Public and Catholic Schools)

Please note: School board boundaries are a rough estimate. Don’t use this map to determine what school board or weather zone you live in as accuracy isn’t guaranteed.

• Green = No Cancellations

• Red = Cancellations (Click for More Details)

• Purple = School Closures (Click for More Details)

List of Cancellations & Closures

English Public and Catholic Schools

• Dufferin-PeeI Catholic: Buses to St Andrew, St Peter, St Benedict and RF Hall are cancelled

• Kawartha Pine Ridge Public & Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Clarington Catholic: There continues to be some transportation disruptions this morning following the ice storm. Please visit www.stsco.ca for Peterborough, Northumberland, and Clarington or www.mybustoschool.ca for details. The following schools remain closed:

  NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST:

  Camborne Public School, Plainville Public School, & Roseneath Centennial Public School

  CITY AND COUNTY OF PETERBOROUGH:

  Buckhorn Public School, Crestwood Intermediate School and Crestwood Secondary School, Norwood District Public School, Norwood Intermediate School and Norwood District High School, & Warsaw Public School

  CITY OF KAWARTHA LAKES:

  St. Luke Catholic Elementary School

• Near North Public & Nipissing-Parry Sound CathoIic: Busses are cancelled for the Redbridge/Thorne weather zone.

• PeeI Public: All transportation to RF Hall SS is cancelled today due to cancellations in Dufferin County.

• Rainbow Public & Sudbury Catholic: Morning busses are cancelled for Sudbury, Espanola, and Massey. Busses will run this afternoon.

• Renfrew County Public & Renfrew County Catholic: All busses are cancelled.

• Simcoe County Public & Simcoe Catholic: Busses are cancelled for Muskoka. The following schools remain closed:

  SIMCOE COUNTY PUBLIC:

  Brechin PS, East Oro PS, Forest Hill PS, Goodfellow PS, Guthrie PS, Holly Meadows ES, Marchmont PS, Rama Central PS, Severn Shores PS, Shanty Bay PS, Uptergrove PS, WR Best Memorial PS & All City of Orillia Schools.

  SIMCOE MUSOKA CATHOLIC:

  All schools in Muskoka and Orillia.

• Trillium Lakelands: Transportation is not running in Zones 4 and 5 due to the ice storm. The following schools remain closed:

  ZONE 1:

  Glen Orchard Public School & Honey Harbour Public School,

  ZONE 3:

  Cardiff Elementary School

  ZONE 4:

  Bobcaygeon Public School, Fenelon Township Public School, Lady Mackenzie Public School, Ridgewood Public School & Woodville Elementary School

  ZONE 5:

  Dr. George Hall Public School, Jack Callaghan Public School, & Mariposa Elementary School

• Upper Grand Public & Wellington CathoIic: Busses are cancelled for North Wellington (Division 3) and Dufferin County & Robert F. Hall (Division 4).

French Schools

• Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO): Busses are cancelled for Renfrew County

• Conseil catholique MonAvenir: École élémentaire catholique Samuel-de-Champlain remains closed.

• Conseil scolaire public du Grand Nord de l’Ontario (CSPGNO): Morning busses are cancelled for Sudbury, Espanola, and Massey. Busses will run this afternoon.

• Le Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario (CSPNE) & Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord: Busses are cancelled for the Redbridge/Thorne weather zone.

'Ice Day' Forecast: Parts of Southern Ontario May See School Bus Cancellations on Thursday Due to Lingering Freezing Rain Impacts

For an updated list of school bus cancellations & school closures, please visit our live article: https://instantweatherinc.com/article/2025/4/3/bus-cancellations

NOTE: SOME SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED DUE TO THE EARLIER ICE STORM. PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD FOR A DETAILED LIST OF SCHOOL CLOSURES

A messy weather system is currently sweeping across Southern Ontario, bringing a mix of freezing rain, ice pellets, and heavy snow. As temperatures begin to rise later this evening and into Thursday morning, much of the precipitation is expected to transition to plain rain, gradually improving road conditions across the region.

Although freezing rain is not expected to persist into the Thursday morning commute, some roads—especially in rural parts of Central and Eastern Ontario—could still be icy. This lingering risk means there’s still a chance that school bus transportation could be impacted in a few regions, depending on how quickly conditions improve overnight.

It’s important to note that localized school closures remain in effect across some of the hardest-hit communities in Central Ontario. These closures are mainly due to ongoing power outages caused by the earlier ice storm. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check directly with your local school board, as the situation continues to evolve.

One area has already confirmed a cancellation for Thursday: Trillium Lakelands District School Board has announced that school transportation will be cancelled in both City of Kawartha Lakes zones. Ongoing recovery efforts and the continued lack of hydro have made transportation logistics extremely difficult. Communication towers remain down in the area, meaning bus drivers are unable to safely coordinate with bus companies, leading to the decision to cancel.

Looking further north, the highest probability of school bus cancellations lies in the Sudbury, North Bay, and Parry Sound regions. In these areas, freezing rain is expected to continue later into the night, only switching over to rain closer to the morning hours. As a result, road conditions are likely to remain icy by morning. The school boards covering these areas are known for being cautious, particularly when it comes to winter weather impacts on rural roads.

For Central and Eastern Ontario, the chances of school bus cancellations are more mixed, ranging between 25% and 50%, depending on the specific region and timing of the transition to rain. Boards that cover more rural or higher elevation areas will be more likely to see issues, while those in the southern sections of the region—where the switchover to rain will happen earlier in the evening—will have a longer window for melting and road improvement overnight.

At this point, the outcome could easily go either way. That’s why confidence remains low when it comes to predicting widespread cancellations despite the messy setup. While conditions are expected to improve quickly overnight, uncertainty lingers, especially for rural zones where icy backroads often remain a hazard well after the main part of the storm has passed.

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Disclaimer: Instant Weather has zero authority when it comes to bus and school closures.

It is completely up to the school boards, bus companies, local authorities, and parents to decide what is best for their children. This is our best guess based on our forecast.

Mid-Week Freezing Rain Risk Threatens Southern Ontario After Last Weekend’s Devastating Ice Storm

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE

With recovery efforts well underway across Central Ontario following the devastating ice storm last weekend—which left hundreds of thousands without power—a new weather threat is now on the horizon, potentially hindering progress.

A dynamic and complex system is expected to move into Southern Ontario starting Wednesday morning and continuing into Thursday, bringing with it a mix of impactful weather, including heavy snow, freezing rain, and even the risk of severe thunderstorms.

Unlike the recent ice storm, which brought over 30 hours of relentless freezing rain, this upcoming round will be more typical in nature. Most regions affected can expect four to eight hours of freezing rain, followed by a gradual transition to regular rain as temperatures rise.

While the severity won't match the last event, this system is still expected to bring 5 to 10mm of ice accretion in some of the hardest-hit zones, especially across higher elevations northwest of the Greater Toronto Area, including parts of the Dundalk Highlands and the Kitchener-Waterloo region.

That amount of ice is enough to snap tree branches and potentially cause power outages, especially with infrastructure already weakened. Thankfully, we don’t expect widespread or prolonged outages this time, and restoration efforts should be more manageable. However, with hydro crews still stretched thin from the last storm, even minor outages could take longer than usual to resolve.

Further north, across Central and Eastern Ontario, freezing rain is also expected—though it will be mixed at times with ice pellets and snow. These regions should see a faster changeover to rain, which will help limit overall ice build-up. Still, light icing and slick roads are possible through the afternoon and evening hours, particularly on untreated surfaces.

Adding to the concern are strong wind gusts, which are expected to develop Wednesday afternoon and could return overnight. Gusts may reach 70 to 90 km/h, especially in exposed areas of Central Ontario and regions east of Lake Huron. With already-compromised infrastructure, even moderate gusts could bring additional tree and power line damage.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Precipitation will begin spreading into Southwestern Ontario late Wednesday morning into the early afternoon. For areas in Deep Southwestern Ontario and along the Lake Erie shoreline, including Windsor, Chatham, and Sarnia, the precipitation will fall as rain from the start, limiting any freezing rain risk.

However, higher elevation zones—particularly those east of Lake Huron and extending through Kitchener, Guelph, and Orangeville—will be dealing with below-freezing surface temperatures trapped under a layer of warm air aloft. This setup is classic for freezing rain, as the rain freezes on contact with cold ground surfaces.

The Greater Toronto Area could see some brief periods of freezing rain as well, particularly in areas away from the immediate lakeshore where it tends to stay cooler. However, any icing here is expected to be minor and short-lived, quickly melting as temperatures rise above freezing.

By mid-afternoon, Central Ontario, especially areas surrounding Lake Simcoe, will likely start off with a wintry mix of wet snow and ice pellets as the first bands of precipitation arrive. These areas could then transition to a few hours of freezing rain before warming into plain rain overnight.

ESTIMATED WIND GUSTS- MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

As the afternoon progresses, wind gusts will begin to increase, particularly in regions east of Lake Huron and into parts of Central Ontario. While model guidance varies, most are pointing to a window of potentially damaging gusts between 70 to 90 km/h.

The NAM model continues to show gusts near 100 km/h, though this may be on the higher end of the spectrum. Overnight, another round of strong gusts is possible as a line of thunderstorms develops. If these storms materialize, localized wind gusts could reach similar or even stronger levels. The severe weather threat should remain confined to Deep Southwestern Ontario.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

As we head into Wednesday evening, freezing rain will come to an end for much of the GTA as temperatures rise above the freezing mark. However, it is expected to persist longer across areas to the northwest, where colder air hangs on longer. This is where the most prolonged and severe icing is likely.

The freezing rain will also spread into parts of Central Ontario and the Bruce Peninsula, both of which were hit hard by the weekend storm and remain vulnerable to additional impacts.

Eastern Ontario will begin to see precipitation late in the day, starting with a burst of heavy snow, followed by a changeover to ice pellets and then freezing rain. How quickly this transition happens will determine how much snow is able to accumulate.

Some model scenarios suggest snowfall totals of 5 to 10 cm are possible, particularly in regions along the Quebec border including Ottawa.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

By around midnight, temperatures will begin to climb across regions southwest of Lake Simcoe, triggering a changeover to rain. Overnight, heavy rainfall will continue to spread across Southwestern Ontario and into the Golden Horseshoe. This rain may come down heavily at times, especially in areas that see embedded thunderstorms.

There is also a risk of severe thunderstorms through the evening and overnight hours in Deep Southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, Chatham, and Sarnia. These storms could produce wind gusts up to 100 km/h, and while the overall tornado risk is low, it can’t be ruled out. A more detailed thunderstorm forecast will be issued on Wednesday if conditions continue to trend toward severe potential.

The freezing rain will gradually lift northward into the Sudbury–North Bay–Ottawa corridor overnight. While these areas may deal with a few hours of freezing rain early on, a transition to rain is expected before daybreak on Thursday.

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE

The worst freezing rain impacts are expected across higher elevations of Southwestern Ontario and areas northwest of the GTA, where the freezing rain will last longest.

Some of these zones could see 5 to 10mm of ice accretion, and locally higher amounts over 10mm aren’t out of the question depending on exact temperatures and dynamics.

This kind of ice build-up can cause significant surface glazing and may lead to tree and power line damage. Areas most at risk include Listowel, Kitchener, Fergus, Guelph, Orangeville, Shelburne, and parts of York Region.

Northern parts of the GTA could see 2 to 5mm of ice, while areas closer to the lake should remain below 2mm, with ice melting quickly once temperatures rise.

Across Central Ontario and into the Ottawa region, a general 2 to 5mm of icing is expected, though this could trend higher if ice pellets are less dominant or the switch to rain is delayed.

RAINFALL ACCUMULATION - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Beyond the freezing rain, this system is also expected to deliver significant rainfall totals. Much of Southern Ontario could see 30 to 50mm of rain, with localized amounts up to 75mm possible in areas affected by thunderstorms.

With local waterways already running high due to spring runoff, this amount of rain could lead to flooding in low-lying areas, particularly where ice and debris continue to block drainage routes. This is of particular concern for communities still without power from the ice storm, as their ability to respond to flooding may be limited.

'Ice Day' Forecast: Another Freezing Rain Risk Threatens School Bus Cancellations in Southern Ontario on Wednesday

NOTE: SOME SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED DUE TO THE EARLIER ICE STORM - ONLY SCHOOL BOARDS THAT HAVE REGION-WIDE CLOSURES ARE HIGHLIGHTED ON THIS MAP. PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD FOR A DETAILED LIST OF SCHOOL CLOSURES

While Central Ontario continues to recover from the devastating ice storm that struck over the weekend, yet another round of freezing rain is expected to impact Southern Ontario throughout the day on Wednesday. In the wake of the storm, widespread damage and ongoing power outages have forced several school boards to extend closures, with more potential disruptions likely as another system moves in.

The Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) has confirmed that all schools will remain closed for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, due to extensive power outages still affecting the region. This closure comes as crews continue efforts to restore electricity and ensure school facilities are safe to reopen.

The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board has also announced multiple school closures for both Wednesday and Thursday. In the District of Muskoka, Monsignor Michael O’Leary, St. Dominic, and Saint Mary will remain closed. In Orillia, the following schools are affected: St. Bernards, Monsignor Lee, Notre Dame, Patrick Fogarty, and Foley.

Meanwhile, the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPR) is planning to reopen schools on Wednesday, but some locations will remain closed due to localized outages. A complete list of affected schools is available on the board’s website: KPR School Closure Update.

Similarly, the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) has announced that some schools will stay closed on Wednesday. Additionally, schools in Orillia will remain closed on Thursday as recovery continues. A full list of school closures can be found here: SCDSB Alert.

On top of these closures, there's growing concern over potential school bus cancellations across parts of Southern Ontario as Environment Canada has issued widespread freezing rain warnings in advance of this next wave. Rural school boards northwest of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)—including Bluewater, Upper Grand, and Simcoe County—are facing the highest risk of bus disruptions. Freezing rain is expected to begin in the late morning and could significantly impact afternoon bus runs.

These regions currently face an estimated 75% chance of an “ice day” on Wednesday. However, the timing of the storm means school boards will need to make proactive decisions, as the worst conditions may arrive after morning transportation has already taken place.

In Eastern Ontario, freezing rain is also in the forecast, though it’s expected to begin later in the day. With the storm arriving after the afternoon commute, most buses will likely run as scheduled on Wednesday. That said, the risk of cancellations rises for Thursday morning as freezing rain is expected to continue overnight and could make for slick travel conditions at the start of the day.

For those in Deep Southwestern Ontario and the Golden Horseshoe, freezing rain is expected to be minimal. With temperatures hovering above freezing, most of this region will avoid major impacts, and school buses are expected to operate as usual.

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Disclaimer: Instant Weather has zero authority when it comes to bus and school closures.

It is completely up to the school boards, bus companies, local authorities, and parents to decide what is best for their children. This is our best guess based on our forecast.

⛈️Severe Thunderstorm Risk, More Freezing Rain, Heavy Rain, Snow, and Strong Wind Gusts on Wednesday in Ontario

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Spring storms are here, and this one is bringing a bit of everything. It will begin Wednesday morning delivering heavy rain, freezing rain, strong wind gusts, severe thunderstorms and snow depending on your location. Southwestern Ontario will see significant rainfall and a severe thunderstorm risk, while parts of central, eastern, the golden horseshoe and northeastern Ontario could face a messy mix of freezing rain, ice pellets, rain, snow and strong wind gusts, again, depending on your location. For those still recovering from last weekend’s ice storm, this storm could certainly add to the challenges. There’s also a risk for substantial snowfall in northwestern Ontario, specially in the Thunder Bay region. Further details on each area below.

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⛈️Severe Thunderstorm Risk

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💨🌪️ Hazard(s): Wind, Tornado, Thunderstorms
📍 Location: Extreme southwestern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Late Wednesday afternoon and evening.
⚠️ Impact(s): Loose objects may be tossed, possible power outages

🔎 Confidence: Low
💥 Impact: High

A line of severe thunderstorms could cross into the province from Michigan, possibly producing wind gusts up to 100 km/h. A brief tornado is also possible on this line. There is lots of uncertainty in this occurring as ingredients to form these thunderstorms are located well south of the border and will rely on the thunderstorms being able to develop there and reach southwestern Ontario before weakening. Refer to the Wednesday Significant Weather discussion for rainfall information.

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🌧️ Heavy Rain, 🧊 Ice, 💨 Strong Wind Gusts, and ❄️ Snow

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📍 Location: Southwestern Ontario

🌧️ Hazard(s): Rain
📍 Location: Southwestern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Wednesday morning into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Possible flooding in low-lying areas

🔎 Confidence: Moderate
💥 Impact: High

Rain is expected and may be accompanied by thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts up to 60 mm are possible by late Wednesday evening, with additional amounts expected on Thursday. Totals will vary, with areas east of Lake Huron receiving up to 60 mm, while regions near Lake Erie will likely see 10 to 20 mm.

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📍 Location: Grey and Bruce Counties east to Peterborough

🧊🌧️ Hazard(s): Ice, Rain
📍 Location: Grey and Bruce Counties east to Peterborough
⏳ Timing: Wednesday midday into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Possible flooding in low-lying areas, broken tree branches from ice build-up

🔎 Confidence: High
💥 Impact: High

Freezing rain, possibly mixed with ice pellets, is expected to bring 4 to 8 mm of ice accretion on some surfaces, particularly over higher terrain. Rain will follow and may be accompanied by thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts up to 40 mm are possible by late Wednesday evening, with more rain on Thursday.

⚠️ Impacts in this area may be enhanced due to recovery efforts from last weekend’s ice storm.

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📍 Location: East of Lake Huron to portions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe

🌧️🧊 Hazard(s): Rain, Ice
📍 Location: East of Lake Huron to portions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe
⏳ Timing: Wednesday midday into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Possible flooding in low-lying areas, possible icy surfaces on roads and walkways.

🔎 Confidence: Moderate
💥 Impact: High

A brief period of freezing rain is expected Wednesday afternoon, bringing 1 to 2 mm of ice accretion on some surfaces, particularly over higher terrain. Rain will follow and may be accompanied by thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts up to 50 mm are possible by late Wednesday evening, with more rain on Thursday.

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📍 Location: Parts of Central, Eastern and Northeastern Ontario

❄️🧊 Hazard(s): Snow, Ice
📍 Location: East of Lake Huron to portions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe
⏳ Timing: Wednesday midday into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Broken tree branches from ice build-up, possible difficult travel conditions

🔎 Confidence: Moderate
💥 Impact: High

A messy mix of winter precipitation is expected. Snow mixed with ice pellets will develop near midday Wednesday, with up to 5 cm possible before transitioning to freezing rain. A period of freezing rain Wednesday evening could bring 3 to 6 mm of ice accretion, especially over higher terrain.

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📍 Location: North shore of Lake Ontario

🧊🌧️ Hazard(s): Ice, Rain
📍 Location: North shore of Lake Ontario
⏳ Timing: Wednesday midday into Thursday
⚠️ Impact(s): Possible icy surfaces on roads and walkways, possible flash flooding and water pooling on roads

🔎 Confidence: Moderate
💥 Impact: Low

A brief period of ice pellets or freezing rain is possible Wednesday afternoon. Rain will follow and may be accompanied by thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts up to 20 mm are possible by late Wednesday evening, with additional amounts expected on Thursday.

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📍 Location: Southern portions of Northeastern Ontario and portions of Eastern Ontario

❄️🧊 Hazard(s): Snow, Ice
📍 Location: Southern portions of northeastern Ontario and portions of eastern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Beginning midday Wednesday
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions

🔎 Confidence:
💥 Impact:

A messy mix of winter precipitation is expected. Snow mixed with ice pellets will develop Wednesday afternoon, with up to 5 cm possible before transitioning to a brief period of freezing rain.

⚠️ Confidence in ice accretion amounts is low. However, accretion is expected to remain fairly low as the freezing rain transitions to rain Wednesday night.

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📍 Location: West of Lake Superior

❄️🌬️ Hazard(s): Snow, Blowing Snow
📍 Location: West of Lake Superior
⏳ Timing: Wednesday morning into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions, reduced visibility, possible road closures

🔎 Confidence:
💥 Impact:

Snowfall amounts up to 25 cm are possible, with locally higher totals over elevated terrain. Gusty winds could lead to local blowing snow, especially near Lake Superior. Additional snowfall is expected Thursday.

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📍 Location: Northwestern Ontario and north of Lake Superior

❄️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Northwestern Ontario and north of Lake Superior
⏳ Timing: Wednesday morning into Thursday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions

🔎 Confidence:
💥 Impact:

Snowfall amounts up to 15 cm are possible, with additional snowfall expected Thursday.

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Final Thoughts:

This is shaping up to be a potentially strong system with widespread rain, ice, and snow affecting much of Ontario. Flooding, icy roads, tree damage, and power outages are all possible. For areas still recovering from last weekend’s ice storm, even small amounts of ice could exacerbate existing damage. The severe thunderstorm risk in deep southwestern Ontario is of particular concern as well.

As always, keep an eye our latest updates and prepare for rapidly changing conditions. Stay safe out there, folks!

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Disclaimer: These forecasts are issued by Environment Canada and typically published via their Twitter/X accounts. We receive these forecast via a daily email and often publish them to help inform our communities.

Ice Storm Aftermath to Keep Many Schools Closed in Central Ontario for a Second Day on Tuesday

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As Central Ontario recovers from the weekend’s devastating ice storm, some school boards in the hardest-hit regions have decided to keep schools closed for a second day on Tuesday due to ongoing power outages and hazardous conditions.

As of 7 PM, the following English public and catholic school boards have announced closures:

• Trillium Lakelands District School Board – All schools closed.

• Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board – Schools closed in Peterborough County, Peterborough City, Northumberland County, and Quinte West.

• Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board – All schools in Peterborough, Peterborough County, and the City of Kawartha Lakes will remain closed. Schools in Northumberland will be open, except for St. Mary Catholic Elementary School in Campbellford, which is closed due to a power outage. Transportation to Northumberland schools will be cancelled. All schools in Clarington will be open, with transportation operating as usual.

• Durham District School Board - The following schools will be closed and no transportation will be provided: Beaver River PS, McCaskills Mills PS, Brock HS, Goodwood PS, Scott Central PS, SA Cawker PS

• Simcoe County District School Board - Schools in the central and north zones will remain closed to students. Clearview Meadows ES and Stayner Collegiate Institute will also remain closed.

• Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board - Schools are closed in the North Zone (Elmvale, Midland, Penetanguishene & Orillia), Central Zone (Barrie, Innisfil & Angus), along with St. Dominic, Monsignor Michael O'Leary and Saint Mary's in Huntsville and St. Noel Chabanel in Wasaga Beach.

This article will be updated should any additional school closures be announced.

'Ice Day' Forecast: Schools Across Parts of Central Ontario Will Be Closed on Monday Due to Major Ice Storm Damage

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A major ice storm has left much of Central Ontario paralyzed, with widespread power outages and extensive damage. While the freezing rain threat has ended for the hardest-hit regions, the impact is far from over. Many communities remain without power, and recovery efforts are only just beginning. With power restoration expected to take days in some areas, school closures on Monday are inevitable.

As of 6:30 PM on Sunday, multiple school boards have already announced they will be closed on Monday due to the ongoing impacts of the storm. This includes Simcoe County District School Board, Trillium Lakelands District School Board, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, and Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. These regions, among the hardest hit, are highlighted in dark purple on the map.

We are also highly confident that additional school closures will be announced in other severely impacted areas, including Tri-Board, North Durham, and Near North. Given the sheer number of power outages, downed trees, and icy roads, it’s difficult to imagine how schools in these regions could safely operate.

Dufferin and Meaford were also hit hard by the storm, and while some cancellations or closures are possible, the impacts there were not as widespread. As a result, the school board may opt to close select schools rather than issuing a full regional closure.

Meanwhile, in the Ottawa Valley, the impacts of this storm have been less severe. However, freezing rain is ongoing this evening and will continue into the overnight hours before transitioning to rain. Road conditions could still be hazardous, especially on rural routes. Because of this, there is a strong chance of school bus cancellations for the Renfrew and Upper Canada school boards.

As for the City of Ottawa, it’s a 50/50 call at this point. The urban school board generally has a higher tolerance for winter conditions since most students do not rely on rural bus routes. That said, with lingering ice and freezing rain, cancellations remain a possibility.

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Disclaimer: Instant Weather has zero authority when it comes to bus and school closures.

It is completely up to the school boards, bus companies, local authorities, and parents to decide what is best for their children. This is our best guess based on our forecast.

Dangerous Ice Storm Likely This Weekend With Widespread Power Outages Across Parts of Southern Ontario

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Concern is rapidly growing for what is shaping up to be a potentially devastating ice storm this weekend across parts of Central and Eastern Ontario. Prolonged freezing rain, beginning Friday evening, is expected to persist throughout much of the weekend, leading to substantial ice accretion on exposed surfaces.

This storm has the potential to reach ice accumulation levels not seen in years—or even over a decade. With up to 40mm of ice accretion possible, widespread power outages are likely in the hardest-hit regions, including Muskoka, Simcoe County, Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, and Kingston.

Some of these power outages could last for days or even weeks, especially in more rural areas with dense tree coverage. Trees weighed down by ice are likely to fall, taking power lines with them. Travel conditions will also be significantly impacted, as ice-covered roads become extremely dangerous.

For Northern Ontario, the storm will start as a classic winter system, bringing heavy snowfall to Northeastern Ontario throughout Saturday. A second round of precipitation on Sunday could introduce freezing rain and ice pellets further south, affecting areas like Elliot Lake, Sudbury, and North Bay. Snowfall totals in Northeastern Ontario are expected to range from 20 to 30cm, making travel difficult.

Even the Ottawa Valley will see significant snowfall, with up to 20cm possible, along with a mix of ice pellets. By Sunday, freezing rain could become a concern for the region as temperatures rise and the precipitation type shifts.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

As of Friday afternoon, rain is already moving into Southwestern Ontario. By the evening, precipitation will spread north and east into Central and Eastern Ontario.

Based on the latest data, a band of heavy snow is expected to develop along a corridor stretching from Sudbury through North Bay and into the Ottawa region. To the south, an area of freezing rain will form over the Bruce Peninsula and extend into regions around Lake Simcoe.

ESTIMATED TEMPERATURE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

How far south the freezing rain spreads remains uncertain. Model guidance suggests surface temperatures will hover near the freezing mark across Barrie and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Even a fraction of a degree difference could significantly alter how much freezing rain accumulates. If the air remains colder than expected, freezing rain could be more widespread. However, a slightly warmer scenario would push the freezing rain line further north.

Confidence is highest for freezing rain in northern sections of Simcoe County, Kawartha Lakes, and Muskoka. These areas are most likely to remain below freezing for an extended period, allowing heavy ice accretion to build up.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

The most intense icing is expected overnight into early Saturday morning. The worst conditions will stretch from Muskoka through Peterborough and into Kingston.

Once again, temperature will be the deciding factor. Some areas, such as Barrie and Newmarket, sit right on the edge between freezing rain and regular rain. If cold air lingers longer than anticipated, freezing rain could extend as far south as the northern GTA, as well as higher elevations like the Dundalk Highlands.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Through Saturday morning and afternoon, light to moderate freezing rain or drizzle is expected to persist across portions of Central Ontario, particularly around Lake Simcoe. However, the intensity will decrease compared to the earlier hours.

Further south, rain will continue across Southwestern Ontario and the GTA. This is when we expect the warmest temperatures of the storm. Some areas in Deep Southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, could surge into the 20s, while Central Ontario remains near or below freezing.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

By Saturday evening, another round of heavy precipitation is expected to push into Central Ontario. At the same time, temperatures will steadily drop. Regions that saw rain in the afternoon—including parts of the GTA and Barrie—may transition back to freezing rain.

ESTIMATED TEMPERATURE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Model data suggests that by late Saturday night into Sunday morning, the freezing rain line could shift southwest of the GTA. This could result in several hours of freezing rain across Kitchener, Waterloo, and parts of the Toronto area.

Deep Southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, Sarnia, and London, is expected to remain unaffected, staying well above freezing.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Sunday morning will bring a gradual transition from freezing rain to regular rain across the GTA as temperatures climb above freezing. However, elevated areas northwest of the city, such as Guelph, Orangeville, and Shelburne, could see freezing rain linger for a few extra hours.

For Central Ontario, the freezing rain will continue into early Sunday afternoon as the main area of precipitation slowly shifts north.

By Sunday afternoon, the Ottawa Valley may begin transitioning from snow to ice pellets and then to freezing rain as temperatures rise.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Most of Southern Ontario will warm above the freezing mark by late Sunday, finally pushing the freezing rain threat northward.

However, by Sunday night into Monday morning, the risk of freezing rain will shift to Northeastern Ontario, including Sudbury and North Bay.

Meanwhile, heavy snow and ice pellets will impact more northern regions, such as Wawa and Timmins.

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Predicting exact ice accretion remains challenging, as many factors influence how much ice actually builds up. The amount of freezing rain you experience may vary significantly from nearby areas due to microclimate effects, surface conditions, and temperature fluctuations.

Some high-resolution model runs suggest an extreme scenario with localized pockets of over 50mm—possibly even 75mm—of freezing rain. However, because much of this precipitation will fall in a relatively short timeframe, not all of it will necessarily adhere to surfaces.

Given this, we are forecasting general ice accretion between 25 and 40mm in the hardest-hit areas. This includes the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Muskoka, Orillia, Barrie, Orangeville, Collingwood, Lindsay, Peterborough, Belleville, and Kingston.

If temperatures are slightly colder than expected, some locations could exceed 40mm of ice accretion, particularly where conditions allow for more efficient accumulation.

To put this into perspective, we can use the Sperry-Piltz Ice Accumulation Index (SPIA Index). With forecasted ice accumulations of 25-40mm (1-1.4”), this storm falls into a Category 4 ice event—even before factoring in wind.

While we are not expecting extreme winds, gusts of 40-50km/h (25-30 mph) in some areas could push this storm into Category 5 territory. According to the SPIA Index, a Category 5 ice storm results in:

Catastrophic damage to entire exposed utility systems, including both distribution and transmission networks. Outages could last several weeks in some areas. Shelters needed.

For the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), ice accretion amounts will vary significantly. The biggest factor will be how long cold air remains trapped at the surface.

We currently expect between 10-15mm of ice for northern parts of the GTA, including York, Durham, and Peel regions. Kitchener and Waterloo will likely see between 5-10mm.

Closer to the Lake Ontario shoreline—including downtown Toronto—freezing rain amounts should be lower, around 2-5mm. However, if temperatures are colder than expected, ice accretion in the GTA could be higher, so it’s still best to prepare.

To the north, ice accretion amounts will drop off as freezing rain transitions to ice pellets and snow closer to the Ottawa Valley.

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In terms of snowfall, widespread totals between 20-30cm are expected across much of Northeastern Ontario through Monday. This includes Sudbury, North Bay, Chapleau, Timmins, and Kirkland Lake. Even Thunder Bay could see 10-20cm of snow, mainly earlier in the weekend.

Along the Quebec border, snowfall amounts will range from 10-20cm in areas like the Ottawa Valley and Cornwall. Further southwest, freezing rain and ice pellets will be the dominant concern, leading to lower snowfall totals.

This storm remains highly dynamic, with small temperature fluctuations potentially making a massive difference in what type of precipitation falls. We will continue to monitor the latest data and provide updates as the situation evolves. Stay safe and stay prepared.

Weathering the Storm: How to Prepare For an Ice Storm

In advance of the ice storm anticipated to impact the province, we at Instant Weather want to make sure that everyone is ready in the event of potential widespread and long term power outages. The impact of an ice storm is not just dependent on the amount of ice accretion, but also the winds associated with the storm. This is summarized using the Sperry-Piltz Ice Accumulation (SPIA) Index shown below.

It is important to be prepared for these situations so we have put together a list of items you should have on hand in case of an emergency:

• Flashlight (windup or battery operated)

• Radio (windup or battery operated)

• Extra batteries

• Portable cell phone charger

• Water (2 litres per person per day)

• Non-perishable canned or dried food

• Manual can opener

• Blankets

• Candles and matches or lighters

• First aid kit and any prescriptions/medical items

• List of emergency numbers

• Cash

• Gasoline

Not sure what kind of food to have ready? Dried food like rice and pasta along with canned tuna can go a long way. Other items such as bread and granola bars are good for fibre and non-refrigerated fruits like bananas, oranges and apples help break up the high-sodium content found in dried foods. Another staple for many are storm chips. For water, an easy way to store a large amount is to fill a bathtub and use the water for drinking, cooking, and flushing toilets.

Since ice storms occur during the winter and early spring months, keeping warm is a major concern during extended power outages from ice storms. Electric baseboard heaters and space heaters will not work. However, natural gas furnaces will still work, but electrical components such as the blower, which forces the warm air through the vents, will not. There are some propane heaters that can be used indoors, but be careful because outdoor propane heaters produce carbon monoxide, making them very dangerous to use inside a home.

Another item worth adding to your emergency kit arsenal is a generator. Generators are available in a variety of sizes and capacities based on individual needs. There are a few things to consider when picking a generator: type, power and additional features.

There are home standby generators that are permanently in place and start up automatically when the power goes out. These units are large and can be quite expensive. There are also smaller, portable generators that either run strictly on gas or on either gas or propane (dual fuel). There is an added benefit of running your generator on propane as it less expensive to run.

Every generator has two power ratings: starting watts and running watts. In order to determine the power of generator you need, you first need to determine what appliances will be running. In the event of an emergency, you may find that the only necessities are the fridge and furnace fan.

It is EXTREMELY important to not run a generator in your house due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

With proper planning and preparation, everyone should be able to get through the stress that comes with extended periods without power. In the case of an ice storm, it’s important to stay indoors and reduce unnecessary travel. Also, we recommend not clogging up emergency lines with non-emergencies. Your power will be back before you know it!

Potential Major Ice Storm Threat on the Horizon for Southern Ontario This Weekend

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With the end of March approaching and the arrival of April, winter’s grip on Southern Ontario is loosening. However, Old Man Winter isn’t leaving quietly. Instead, the final days of March bring the potential for multiple rounds of heavy freezing rain across parts of the region.

The risk of freezing rain is set to begin late Friday as the first wave of precipitation moves in. This initial bout of freezing rain could be quite heavy at times, particularly across Central and Southern portions of Eastern Ontario. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) may also see some freezing rain late Friday before transitioning to regular rain as temperatures rise overnight.

A second wave of freezing rain is expected to develop Saturday evening and continue through Sunday. However, this round carries more uncertainty, with forecast models disagreeing on how far north warm air will push at the surface. Some models concentrate the freezing rain in Northeastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley, while others bring it much farther south, placing the GTA in the bullseye.

While there is still uncertainty regarding the exact track and intensity of the freezing rain, all major weather models agree on the overall setup. Cold air will remain locked in at the surface across parts of Southern Ontario, while a surge of warm air moves in aloft. This combination will create ideal conditions for freezing rain formation.

These conditions are expected to persist throughout much of the weekend, with multiple waves of freezing rain possible. Given the prolonged duration of freezing rain, significant impacts are likely. Thick layers of ice could accumulate on untreated surfaces, including trees and power lines. The weight of this ice may lead to substantial damage to the power grid, with outages that could take days—or even weeks—to repair.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Focusing on the first round, models are beginning to develop a clearer picture of where freezing rain will be most intense. Initial bands of precipitation should move into Southwestern Ontario by late Friday afternoon or evening.

As this precipitation reaches areas such as Kitchener, Owen Sound, and Barrie, it will encounter stubborn below-freezing temperatures at the surface. This will lead to freezing rain developing across these regions.

Further north, a band of heavy snow is expected to spread across areas near the northern shoreline of Lake Superior, extending into Timmins. In more southern locations, such as Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, and North Bay, ice pellets will likely be the dominant form of precipitation.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Models agree that warm air associated with this system will gradually work its way toward the surface, beginning in the southwest and pushing northeast through the night. As a result, some freezing rain may mix with regular rain, especially southwest of Lake Simcoe and near the Lake Ontario shoreline in the GTA.

The persistence of cold air at the surface remains a major question mark. Some models suggest that cold air will be more stubborn, leading to more sustained freezing rain in the GTA overnight and into Saturday morning.

What is more certain is that a particularly intense band of freezing rain will set up over Central Ontario, including the Bruce Peninsula, Muskoka, Simcoe County, Peterborough, and Kingston. Significant ice accumulation is expected in these areas, with freezing rain continuing into Saturday morning. While freezing rain will persist into the afternoon, it should gradually become more scattered in nature.

In the Ottawa Valley, ice pellets and snow will be the main concern. There remains uncertainty regarding snowfall totals, as accumulation will depend on how much mixing occurs with ice pellets. Estimates currently range from 10 to 20 cm, but if ice pellets dominate, snowfall amounts could be closer to 5 cm.

TEMPERATURE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Looking at the temperature setup for this event, a sharp gradient will be present across Southern Ontario on Saturday morning. This is one of the factors making this forecast so tricky.

Below-freezing temperatures will be well-established over Central and Eastern Ontario, as indicated by areas northeast of the pink line on the map above. Meanwhile, Deep Southwestern Ontario—including Windsor, Sarnia, and London—will experience double-digit temperatures, with no threat of wintry precipitation.

The most uncertain area lies between the orange and pink lines on the map above. This includes much of the GTA and the Grey-Bruce region. Temperatures in these areas will hover near the freezing mark, placing them at the boundary between warm and cold air. If models are off by just a degree or two, it could mean the difference between an ice storm and plain rain.

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This represents our preliminary assessment of the hardest-hit areas from the first round of freezing rain. It’s important to note that this forecast covers conditions through Saturday night, but the threat of freezing rain will persist into Sunday and even Monday. There is less certainty regarding how the second round will play out, so our focus remains on the first round for now.

Confidence is highest for significant ice storm impacts in locations such as Tobermory, Wiarton, Owen Sound, Collingwood, Orangeville, Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Muskoka, Parry Sound, Peterborough, and Kingston. Ice accretion in these areas will likely exceed 10 mm and could even reach 20 to 30 mm in the worst-case scenarios.

As previously discussed, temperatures will play a crucial role in determining the extent of freezing rain along the narrow corridor that includes the GTA and Kitchener. Slightly colder temperatures could mean prolonged freezing rain, while a warmer solution would allow for a quicker transition to rain overnight Friday.

Those in Deep Southwestern Ontario and along the Lake Erie shoreline should see little impact, as temperatures will remain well above freezing, resulting in plain rain rather than freezing precipitation.

For more northern regions along the Quebec border, ice pellets and snow will be the dominant precipitation types. Locations such as North Bay, Pembroke, and Ottawa could see 10+ cm of snow, with a risk of ice pellets and possibly brief periods of freezing rain.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

As the first round of freezing rain winds down across Southern Ontario, lingering pockets of freezing drizzle may persist across Central and Eastern Ontario through Saturday afternoon. In the GTA, temperatures could dip just enough to allow for a transition back to freezing rain later in the day.

The second round of freezing rain is expected to arrive by Saturday evening as energy moves in from the U.S. Midwest.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Models are in solid agreement that this second wave will set up another band of freezing rain in the same areas hit hardest by the first round, including Central Ontario and portions of the GTA. This freezing rain will persist overnight into Sunday morning. However, by Sunday morning, the models begin to diverge significantly.

A more northern track would see warm air winning out across Southern Ontario, allowing temperatures to rise and leading to a transition to rain near Lake Simcoe. This would push the freezing line northward into Northeastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley. In this scenario, freezing rain would be confined to areas such as Sudbury and North Bay, while heavy snow would develop from Wawa to Timmins.

Both the Canadian and European models favor this northern solution, which would be the better outcome for Southern Ontario, as it would avoid a second major icing event. However, this would be worse news for Sudbury and North Bay, where a significant ice storm could unfold.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

This more northern track has the warmer air winning out across Southern Ontario during the morning on Sunday. This gradually leads to a switch over to rain near Lake Simcoe as the freezing line puches north into Northeastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley.

Then freezing rain would be contained to Northeastern Ontario including Sudbury and North Bay. While heavy snow extends from Wawa to Timmins.

Both the Canadian and European models favor this solution. Which would certainly be the better outcome for Southern Ontario as they escape a second icing event. But would be worst news for Sudbury and North Bay which could see an ice storm.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

On the other hand, the American model suggests a much more southerly track, which would place Southwestern Ontario and the Golden Horseshoe directly in the path of heavy icing. This scenario would bring freezing rain through Sunday night into Monday morning, creating hazardous conditions for the Monday morning commute.

If this outcome materializes, widespread school bus cancellations across Southern Ontario would be likely on Monday morning. Meanwhile, areas farther north could see accumulating snow on top of earlier ice buildup.

Unfortunately, a significant cooldown is expected in the wake of this storm. By Monday evening, temperatures will plunge into the negative teens. Any ice that accumulates over the weekend will remain in place for several days, increasing the strain on the power grid as trees continue to fall onto power lines.

Regardless of how this storm unfolds, it is shaping up to be a high-impact winter event with potentially severe consequences in some areas. Prepare for treacherous travel conditions and the possibility of widespread power outages lasting multiple days.

We will provide further updates as the weekend approaches. Stay tuned and stay safe!

⚠️ Significant Winter Storm Risk For Ontario This Weekend With Three Days of Freezing Rain Possible 🚨

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It may say spring on the calendar but Ontario could get a rude reminder that winter is not done with us quite yet! ❄️🥶 Environment Canada meteorologists are forecasting the potential for a significant winter storm this weekend that could bringing several days of freezing rain, causing icy roads, tree damage, and possible power outages across much of Southern Ontario.

*To clarify, “Southern” Ontario includes Southwestern, Central, Golden Horseshoe and Eastern regions. From many questions we’ve received, it seems that often ‘Southern Ontario’ is mistaken for ‘Southwestern Ontario’.

Meanwhile, lake effect snow will create hazardous travel conditions midweek, and this potentially significant winter storm could extend the icy mess into Sunday. Confidence remains low on exact snowfall amounts and ice accumulation, but this system looks like could pack a punch—stay prepared and watch for updates!

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📅 Tuesday, March 25, 2025

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📍 Location: Areas east of Lake Huron & Georgian Bay

🌨️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Areas east of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay
⏳ Timing: Tuesday
⚠️ Impact(s): Hazardous travel conditions, reduced visibility

Confidence: Moderate
Impact: Moderate

🔹 Lake effect snow will develop early Tuesday morning with local snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm possible.

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📅 Wednesday, March 26, 2025

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📍 Location: Areas east of Lake Huron

🌨️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Areas east of Lake Huron
⏳ Timing: Wednesday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Hazardous travel conditions & Reduced visibility

Confidence: Low
Impact Level: Moderate

🔹 The lake effect snow will drift southward Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with local snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm possible. Snow is expected to ease near midday.

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⚠️ Friday, March 28, 2025

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📍 Location: Portions of southwestern Ontario and the Greater Golden Horseshoe

🧊 Hazard(s): Ice
📍 Location: Portions of southwestern Ontario and the Greater Golden Horseshoe
⏳ Timing: Friday evening
⚠️ Impact(s): Icy surfaces such as roads and walkways

Confidence: Moderate
Impact Level: High

🔹 A prolonged freezing rain event is expected to begin Friday evening, with multiple waves of freezing rain. There is still uncertainty regarding the timing and exact location of the rain/freezing rain boundary. The freezing rain is expected to continue into the weekend for parts of southern, central, and eastern Ontario.

📍 Location: Northeastern, central, and eastern Ontario, as well as eastern portions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe

🌨️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Northeastern, central, and eastern Ontario, as well as eastern portions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe
⏳ Timing: Friday evening
⚠️ Impact(s): Hazardous travel conditions & snow-covered and slippery roads/walkways

Confidence: Low
Impact Level: Moderate

🔹 Snow will push into the region Friday evening before clearing late Friday night or early Saturday morning. Snowfall amounts remain uncertain.

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📍 Location: Northwestern Ontario and western portions of the North Shore of Lake Superior

🌨️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Northwestern Ontario and western portions of the North Shore of Lake Superior
⏳ Timing: Friday
⚠️ Impact(s): Hazardous travel conditions & snow-covered and slippery roads/walkways

Confidence: Low
Impact Level: Moderate

🔹 Heavy snowfall is expected Friday morning, persisting through the day before easing Friday evening. The heaviest snowfall areas remain uncertain.

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⚠️ Saturday, March 29, 2025

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📍 Location: Most of southern Ontario

⏳ Timing: Saturday
🧊 Hazard(s): Ice
📍 Location: Most of southern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Saturday
⚠️ Impact(s):

• ⚠️ Icy roads and walkways

• 🌳 Broken tree branches from ice build-up

• 🔌 Possible utility outages

Confidence: Too low in the extended range to assign a weather threat level
Impact Level: Potentially moderate or greater

🔹 A significant winter storm could bring an extended period of freezing rain, potentially leading to hazardous travel, minor tree damage, and power outages. Stay tuned for updates!

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⚠️ Sunday, March 30, 2025

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📍 Location: Most of southern Ontario

🧊 Hazard(s): Ice
📍 Location: Most of southern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Sunday
⚠️ Impact(s):

• ⚠️ Icy roads and walkways

• 🌳 Broken tree branches from ice build-up

• 🔌 Possible utility outages

Confidence: Too low in the extended range to assign a weather threat level
Impact Level: Potentially moderate or greater

🔹 A prolonged period of freezing rain is possible. Hazardous travel, tree damage, and power outages could occur. Stay alert for future updates!

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Final Thoughts:

A messy mix of snow and freezing rain is set to impact Ontario from Friday through the weekend, bringing travel hazards, icy conditions, and possible power outages. Uncertainty remains in the details but this system has the potential to cause significant impacts—stay tuned for updates!

TLDR; Be prepared for icy conditions, charge your devices, and take caution if you must travel. 🚗💨

Be safe, folks!

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Disclaimer: These forecasts are issued by Environment Canada and typically published via their Twitter/X accounts. We receive these forecast via a daily email and often publish them to help inform our communities.

Southern Ontario: School Bus Cancellations for Monday, March 24, 2025

**Please refresh your page every few minutes to receive the latest update**

Cancellation & Closure Map (English Public and Catholic Schools)

Please note: School board boundaries are a rough estimate. Don’t use this map to determine what school board or weather zone you live in as accuracy isn’t guaranteed.

• Green = No Cancellations

• Red = Cancellations (Click for More Details)

• Purple = School Closures (Click for More Details)

List of Cancellations & Closures

English Public and Catholic Schools

• Near North Public & Nipissing-Parry Sound CathoIic: Bussing for all weather corridors are cancelled today.

• Rainbow Public & Sudbury Catholic: All morning school related transportation services for English Catholic, English public, French Catholic and French public schools, operating in the districts of SUDBURY, ESPANOLA, MASSEY AND MANITOULIN

• Renfrew County Public & Renfrew County Catholic: Zone 4 Madawaska area transportation services are cancelled with select cancellations in other areas and delays expected.

French Schools

• Conseil scolaire public du Grand Nord de l’Ontario (CSPGNO): All morning school related transportation services for English Catholic, English public, French Catholic and French public schools, operating in the districts of SUDBURY, ESPANOLA, MASSEY AND MANITOULIN

• Le Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario (CSPNE) & Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord: Bussing for all weather corridors are cancelled today.

'Snow Day' Forecast: Late Season School Bus Cancellations Possible on Monday Due to Heavy Snow

For an updated list of school bus cancellations & school closures, please visit our live article: https://instantweatherinc.com/article/2025/3/24/bus-cancellations

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With the school year nearing the end of peak weather-related bus cancellation season, students in parts of Southern Ontario may still have a chance to squeeze in one more snow day before spring fully takes over.

A messy weather system is set to sweep across Southern Ontario overnight Sunday into Monday, bringing the potential for accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions during the Monday morning commute. Areas around Georgian Bay could see up to 20 cm of snowfall, which may be enough to trigger widespread school bus cancellations in some regions.

Environment Canada has issued winter travel advisories for parts of Grey-Bruce, Parry Sound, and North Bay, making these locations the most likely to experience disruptions on Monday morning.

For students in the Near North District School Board, which covers Parry Sound and North Bay, the likelihood of a snow day is quite high, sitting at 75%. With these areas expected to receive the heaviest snowfall, and considering that this school board has a history of being cautious with winter weather, there's a strong possibility that school buses will be canceled on Monday.

The Bruce Peninsula, Northern Muskoka, and North Hastings (Tri-Board) face a more uncertain forecast, with the chances of a snow day sitting at 50/50. These areas are expected to see less snowfall overall. However, factors like blowing snow and reduced visibility during the morning hours could still result in cancellations, especially in rural and exposed areas.

For the rest of Grey-Bruce, along with South Muskoka and northern sections of Tri-Board, the chance of school bus cancellations is slight but not impossible. Snowfall amounts will likely be lower, but conditions could still lead to localized travel disruptions, particularly on untreated roads.

The probability of a snow day drops significantly for the rest of Southern Ontario, including Southwestern Ontario, the Golden Horseshoe, and Eastern Ontario. Snowfall in these areas is not expected to be heavy enough to warrant widespread bus cancellations. However, there remains a small chance (5-25%) of isolated cancellations, particularly in rural areas where road conditions can deteriorate more quickly.

While this storm won’t bring a province-wide snow day, those in the hardest-hit regions should keep an eye on overnight conditions and school board announcements early Monday morning.

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Disclaimer: Instant Weather has zero authority when it comes to bus and school closures.

It is completely up to the school boards, bus companies, local authorities, and parents to decide what is best for their children. This is our best guess based on our forecast.

Spring Snowstorm Could Dump Up to 20cm of Snow on Parts of Southern Ontario to Start the Week

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After an active month of wintry weather across Southern Ontario, March has taken a much calmer turn, bringing spring-like temperatures and even double-digit highs in some areas. However, don’t be fooled by the recent warmth—winter isn’t quite done with us yet. Despite what the calendar says, a surge of colder air will take over for the final days of March, setting the stage for a late-season snowstorm on the horizon.

An organized system is expected to bring heavy snow to parts of Southern Ontario starting late Sunday evening and continuing into Monday. Mixed precipitation will likely limit snowfall accumulation along the Lake Ontario and Lake Erie shorelines. However, further north, particularly around Georgian Bay, lake enhancement could boost totals, with some areas seeing 10-20 cm of snow. This storm could bring the most substantial snowfall in weeks, potentially impacting the Monday morning commute.

In addition to the snow, strong winds will develop on Monday morning and afternoon, with gusts reaching 50 to 70 km/h. This will lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially in areas prone to drifting, such as Grey-Bruce.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

The messy weather is set to arrive Sunday evening, with the first bands of precipitation moving into Southwestern Ontario. However, the forecast remains tricky due to overnight warming temperatures. Some areas will start off with wet snow before transitioning to rain, especially near Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.

For Deep Southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, Chatham, Sarnia, and the Niagara region, snowfall will likely be limited as these areas will see mainly rain or a quick changeover from snow to rain after only a few hours. London, Goderich, and Kitchener will see more prolonged snowfall through the overnight hours, though freezing rain and ice pellets may mix in at times.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

The heaviest snow is expected to move into Central and Eastern Ontario by the pre-dawn hours of Monday, with several hours of steady snowfall along the leading edge of the system. However, since temperatures will be rising overnight, some of this snow may struggle to accumulate, particularly on road surfaces. Areas near the Lake Ontario shoreline may also see a mix of snow, rain, and ice pellets rather than steady snowfall.

By Monday morning, snow will continue spreading northeast, reaching the Ottawa Valley by sunrise. Given the timing, the snow could create challenging travel conditions during the morning commute, with reduced visibility and slushy roads. School bus cancellations may be possible in rural parts of Central and Eastern Ontario.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

While the widespread snowfall will taper off by late morning or early afternoon, lingering snow is expected around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, where lake enhancement could lead to heavier localized snowfall. Grey-Bruce, Parry Sound, and North Bay will be among the hardest-hit areas, with additional accumulations into Monday night.

Meanwhile, for Eastern Ontario and the Golden Horseshoe, the bulk of the snow will be finished by midday Monday. However, light lake-effect snow will persist in the snowbelt regions throughout the rest of Monday into Tuesday. Some weak snow squalls could occasionally drift into Eastern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), but accumulation will be minimal outside of the snowbelt zones.

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By the time the system exits Monday evening, the highest snowfall totals will likely be in Bruce Peninsula, northeast Georgian Bay, and Northern Ontario, including Tobermory, Manitoulin Island, Sudbury, Parry Sound, North Bay, and Huntsville. These areas are expected to see 10-20 cm, with locally higher amounts possible.

That said, above-freezing temperatures for several hours on Monday could lead to melting and compacting of the snow, potentially reducing overall accumulations from what falls initially.

For Central Ontario, including Kitchener, Orangeville, Hanover, Owen Sound, Collingwood, Midland, Orillia, Bracebridge, and Bancroft, snowfall totals will generally range between 5-10 cm by Monday evening. However, some areas east of Lake Huron may see slightly higher totals, depending on lake enhancement.

For the Ottawa Valley, Southwestern Ontario, and the Golden Horseshoe away from the lakeshores, accumulations will likely stay under 5 cm. These areas may see a few centimetres of wet snow Sunday night, but overall, nothing significant is expected.

Regions directly along the Lake Ontario and Erie shorelines, as well as Deep Southwestern Ontario, will see little to no snowfall as rain or mixed precipitation will dominate.

Beyond Monday, lake-effect snow will persist into Tuesday, mainly affecting areas around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, where localized snow squalls could bring a few extra centimetres.

Winter Isn’t Giving up Without a Fight in Parts of Ontario This Week

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Spring may have arrived on the calendar, but winter clearly didn’t get the memo! A late season storm is on the way to remind parts of Ontario that mother nature decides when we’re done with winter. This system will bringing hazardous travel conditions, accumulating snowfall, and blowing snow. Just when you thought it was safe to pack away the snow shovel, winter decides to throw another snowy tantrum to start off the week!

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Sunday, March 23, 2025

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Location: North and west of Lake Superior

❄️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: North and west of Lake Superior
⏳ Timing: Sunday into Monday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Hazardous travel conditions, reduced visibility, and possible road closures

✅ Confidence: High
📉 Impact: Moderate

A widespread snowfall event will bring accumulations of 15 to 25 cm north and west of Lake Superior. While confidence is high for at least 15 cm, higher terrain areas could see totals closer to 25 cm, though confidence in these higher amounts remains low.

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Location: Northwestern Ontario and north of Lake Superior

❄️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Northwestern Ontario and north of Lake Superior
⏳ Timing: Sunday into Monday morning
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions

✅ Confidence: Moderate
📉 Impact: Moderate

Northwestern Ontario and areas northeast toward Lake Nipigon could see 5 to 15 cm of snow. The highest totals, near 10 to 15 cm, are expected close to the Minnesota border and northeastward.

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Monday, March 24, 2025

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Location: Northeastern Ontario and parts of southern Ontario

❄️ Hazard(s): Snow
📍 Location: Northeastern Ontario and parts of southern Ontario
⏳ Timing: Monday
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions

✅ Confidence: Moderate
📉 Impact: Moderate

Snow will begin late Sunday night or early Monday morning, with accumulations of 5 to 15 cm expected. However, areas in southern Ontario could see snow transition to rain showers by late morning or early afternoon, creating slushy and messy road conditions. Later in the day, snow will redevelop east of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.

There is some uncertainty regarding how far south the heavier snow will extend, as the system's track and timing of the changeover to rain remain uncertain.

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Tuesday, March 25, 2025

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Location: Areas east of northern Lake Huron

❄️ Hazard(s): Snow, Blowing Snow
📍 Location: Areas east of northern Lake Huron
⏳ Timing: Tuesday
⚠️ Impact(s): Difficult travel conditions

✅ Confidence: Moderate
📉 Impact: Moderate

Lake effect snow will develop early Tuesday morning, with 5 to 10 cm of snow expected. Gusty winds will create areas of blowing snow, leading to reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions.

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Final Thoughts:

Winter may be running out of time, but it's making the most of its final days with multiple rounds of accumulating snow and travel impacts. The heaviest snowfall is expected north and west of Lake Superior, with lesser amounts across northwestern and northeastern Ontario. For southern Ontario, uncertainty remains regarding the transition from snow to rain, which could impact accumulation totals.

By Tuesday, lake effect snow and blowing snow east of northern Lake Huron could further worsen travel conditions. Those with travel plans should stay updated on forecasts and prepare for changing road conditions. While spring may be on the calendar, winter isn’t leaving without a fight.

Be safe, folks!

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Disclaimer: These forecasts are issued by Environment Canada and typically published via their Twitter/X accounts. We receive these forecast via a daily email and often publish them to help inform our communities.

The First Day of Spring Won’t Feel Spring-Like in Southern Ontario as Snow Returns on Thursday

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Although we’ve had an early taste of spring across Southern Ontario, the first official day of astronomical spring arrives Thursday morning. But don’t put that shovel away just yet! The mild temperatures we’ve been enjoying are about to be replaced by a surge of colder air over the next 24 hours.

Unfortunately, this means temperatures will drop back into the single digits, and in some cases, below freezing. Along with the cooler temperatures, scattered flurries are expected to develop in parts of Southern Ontario starting Thursday afternoon. While we aren’t anticipating significant accumulation, some areas could see a few slushy centimetres of snow on the roads. This could pose a challenge for those who have switched to summer tires a little too soon.

Looking ahead, it appears this below-seasonal trend will continue through the weekend and into early next week, bringing several chances for snow. Some of these systems could produce notable snowfall accumulation, especially for more northern sections of Central and Eastern Ontario over the weekend.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Right now, a storm system is affecting Northeastern Ontario, with snow expected to continue overnight into Thursday morning. Areas including Sault Ste. Marie, Elliot Lake, and Timmins are on track to see heavy snow, with totals ranging from 20 to 40 cm in the hardest-hit locations.

For the most up-to-date details on the impacts on Northern Ontario, please refer to Environment Canada’s latest alerts by downloading our free weather app here.

Meanwhile, over Southern Ontario, a weakening line of thunderstorms is expected to push through during the pre-dawn hours of Thursday. When you wake up, it may still feel like spring, with temperatures near double digits in the morning. However, don’t be fooled—a sharp drop in temperatures is expected later in the day. If you’re heading out, it’s definitely a day to layer up!

Rainfall amounts will likely be fairly insignificant, with around 5 to 10 mm expected. However, localized areas could see higher amounts if they experience heavier thunderstorms.

PRECIPITATION TYPE - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

By Thursday afternoon, cold air will begin filtering into western sections of Southern Ontario, leading to a rain-to-snow transition starting as early as 1 to 3 PM for regions near Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.

With temperatures dropping close to the freezing mark and residual moisture from earlier rainfall, icy conditions could develop on untreated surfaces. While it doesn’t look like a true flash freeze, it could still result in hazardous travel conditions Thursday evening and into the overnight hours.

The snow is expected to persist into the evening, with the heaviest precipitation focused on Southwestern and Central Ontario. Areas in Eastern Ontario and around the Golden Horseshoe will likely avoid the transition to snow, as temperatures won’t drop enough before the precipitation exits.

temperature - MAP FROM WEATHERBELL

Friday, the first full day of spring, will start on a chilly note, with most of Southern Ontario waking up to temperatures at or slightly below freezing. This also means a risk of frost, so if you’ve started gardening early, you may want to bring in or cover any sensitive plants.

Factoring in the wind chill, some parts of Central and Eastern Ontario could experience feels-like temperatures in the -10s—a sharp contrast to the 20°C+ highs that many regions enjoyed on Wednesday!

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Despite this blast of colder air, we aren’t expecting significant snowfall accumulation on Thursday, especially compared to what Grey-Bruce and Muskoka have endured this winter.

However, there could still be some travel impacts, with 2 to 4 cm possible in areas including Kincardine, Hanover, Owen Sound, Wiarton, Tobermory, Parry Sound, Huntsville, Sundridge, and North Bay. Due to wet surfaces from earlier rain, some of this snow may melt on contact, leading to lower actual snowfall totals.

Elsewhere across Southwestern Ontario, Central Ontario, and the Ottawa Valley, a few flurries could fall Thursday afternoon into the evening, but accumulation will be minimal—at most 2 cm, and in many cases, it may not even stick to the ground.

This won’t be our last chance for snow in the coming days. We are closely monitoring a weak system that could bring a few centimeters of snow to Southern Ontario on Saturday.

Another system, arriving Sunday night into Monday, could be more significant. Early model data suggests it may bring over 10 cm of snow to parts of the region. However, the exact snowfall amounts will depend on the storm’s track, as it also appears to include freezing rain and mixed precipitation. We’ll be watching this closely and will have more details as we get closer.