Ontario Braces for a 24-Degree Temperature Swing as Arctic Air Sweeps In
Get ready to bundle up, Ontario! This weekend will see a dramatic temperature drop as some of the coldest air in years grips the province, bringing hazardous conditions and a truly frosty reminder of winter’s bite.
On Saturday, residents might be tempted to enjoy relatively mild temperatures ranging from 1°C to -3°C across southern Ontario. But don’t be fooled—by Sunday morning, the mercury is set to nosedive, with a jaw-dropping 20°C drop in some regions. In northern Ontario, the temperature plunge could reach as much as 24°C within 24 hours, according to The Weather Network.
Starting Tuesday, southern Ontario is expected to experience its coldest stretch since January 2019, with temperatures in the range of -15°C and wind chills that could make it feel even colder. Ottawa is bracing for an overnight low of -27°C, a figure not recorded since February 2023.
Meteorologists are warning of quickly freezing snow-covered surfaces, creating treacherous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike. Frostbite-inducing wind chills are also a serious concern.
“If you must head out, be prepared for icy roads, slippery sidewalks, and biting cold,” forecasters advise.
Lake-effect snow is expected to blanket areas near Lake Huron over the next several days as Arctic winds sweep through the region. Shifting wind patterns could disperse snowfall unpredictably, compounding the wintry chaos.
The Arctic blast is likely to linger until midweek, with temperatures remaining below seasonal averages into late January. While February might bring some relief with milder air pushing up from the U.S., it’s unclear whether Ontarians can expect early spring warmth or a messy mix of storms.
For now, the advice is clear: stock up on hot chocolate, dig out your warmest winter gear, and prepare for a quintessentially Canadian cold snap. With freezing conditions and icy surfaces expected, it’s essential to take precautions to stay safe during this dramatic weather shift.
Whether you’re braving the cold or watching the snowfall from the comfort of home, this weekend promises to be a stark reminder of winter’s power in Ontario.