Canada — December 4, 2025 | Dalena Reporters
A new winter system sweeping across Southern Ontario and Quebec has triggered multiple weather warnings as authorities brace for heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous travel conditions. In response to the evolving conditions, Environment Canada has activated its colour-coded alert framework, issuing snow squall watches and warnings for regions expected to see rapid snow accumulations and whiteout conditions.
Forecasters warn that parts of the region particularly areas east of Lake Huron and along the Great Lakes could see sudden onset of lake-effect snow squalls overnight, producing heavy snowfall and drastically reduced visibility. Snowfall rates could reach levels capable of disabling roads and disrupting travel.
In Quebec, southern and southwestern areas including zones along the St. Lawrence River may face the season’s most significant snowfall yet — with 20–35 cm expected in some localities. Combined with gusty winds, these conditions could lead to blowing snow and “whiteouts,” significantly increasing risks for road users and commuters.
Residents are being urged to avoid non-essential travel, especially overnight and during the early morning hours, when snow and wind are forecast to peak. Commuters that must travel are advised to check road conditions, reduce speed, and allow extra time for their journeys. Municipal authorities warn that high-profile vehicles and those towing loads are particularly vulnerable to strong lateral winds.
The warnings come amid a broader shift in Canada’s weather-alerting policy: the national system now uses a colour-coded matrix (yellow, orange, red) to signal the severity of hazards. Yellow alerts denote moderate risk, orange signals significant disruption or damage potential, and red is reserved for rare, life-threatening events. The system aims to help citizens quickly gauge the urgency of weather advisories.