Forecast of warmer winters with predictions of cold snaps.
The Canadian weather continues to surprise.
The beautiful warm weather lasted far longer than normal, with most of Ontario seeing above average temperatures for the month of November. As we enter the final month of 2024, and quickly approach winter, the coldest season of the month looks to continue the trend.
“The models are pointing towards potentially a warmer than normal winter.” said Trudy Kidd, a meteorologist with Environment Canada. “That official forecast isn’t out yet, and even the one that I provided, there may be changes to that in the coming weeks when the forecasts get updated. But often when we talk about the seasonal forecasts, some people might take it to assume that the whole winter will be warmer than normal. Sometimes we will see that the month has been warmer than normal, but that still can include some cold snaps, some extreme cold temperatures. We’re no stranger to extremes in Ontario, and so that’s why I always like to mention just being prepared for anything and everything,”
Kidd notes the forecast is not set in stone due to unpredictable weather events.
“Typically, in southern Ontario, including Toronto, winters tend to be cold. We’ll probably have snow, but for Toronto, specifically, it often melts quickly especially the closer you get to Lake Ontario.”
She advises residents to take proactive steps to prepare for the winter season. This includes changing the tires on vehicles to winter tires, preparing emergency kits and staying informed of weather events regularly through trusted sources.
“Staying weather aware is really important,” Kidd suggests. “We have an Environment Canada app called WeatherCAN that people can follow and get alerts that way.”
Motorists and pedestrians should take precautions to ensure safety during their winter commutes. For people making travel plans especially for the holiday seasons, Kidd urges them to update oneself with the forecast before you leave, for not only where you are, but also where you’re going.
“In the winter, our days are really short, so it can be really hard to see pedestrians in the rain and even in the snow… so it’s important to take your time and give yourself lots of space between you and the vehicle in front to stop, and be extra aware of pedestrians.”
Despite winter being a tough season, it also offers opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment. Activities like ice skating, snowboarding and tobogganing are few that can be experienced during this season.
Kidd advises you to dress warmly with a good thicker coat to stop the cold winds outside and to make time to see your loved ones to warm yourself from the inside and get through the season.
