Freezing rain could make roads slick across parts of GTA tonight, Environment Canada warns

Environment Canada warns of icy roads and potential river hazards, urging caution north of the 401.

Environment Canada is warning of potentially dangerous travel conditions across much of the GTA tonight as freezing rain moves into the region, creating the risk of icy and slippery roadways.

A special weather statement is in effect for Toronto, Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Vaughan and Richmond Hill, while a yellow freezing rain warning has been issued for Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa, where higher ice accumulation and possible power outages are expected.

What can i expect?

In areas under the special weather statement, officials say precipitation is expected to begin as snow or rain late this afternoon before potentially transitioning into a period of freezing rain this evening.

Up to two millimetres of ice is possible in some areas.

“Roads and walkways may become icy and slippery. Be very careful if walking or driving,” the weather agency said in its advisory.

For areas south of Highway 401, including parts of Toronto closer to Lake Ontario, experts say you may see little to no icing, as temperatures are expected to remain just above the freezing mark.

More ice for areas in Durham region

For Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa, Environment Canada has issued a yellow freezing rain warning, signalling a higher level of risk.

In those areas, two to four millimetres of ice accretion is possible this evening.

New weather alerts Credit: Environment & Climate Change Canada

The agency says precipitation will likely begin as snow or ice pellets before changing over to freezing rain, which could last for several hours before tapering off overnight.

“Roads and walkways will likely become icy and slippery,” the warning states, adding that localized utility outages are also possible due to ice buildup.

Authorities are urging people to take extra care if they need to travel tonight, particularly during the evening commute, as even small amounts of ice can make roads and sidewalks hazardous.

The freezing rain is expected to end later this evening or overnight as temperatures gradually rise above zero.