Dangerous driving and walking conditions are expected, along with possible power outages
TORONTO, January 5, 2026 — We can expect several hours of freezing rain with 1 to 5 mm of ice build-up possible today across the GTA, according to Environment Canada. Canada’s most trusted weather source has issued a Yellow weather alert for this afternoon, meaning weather may cause damage, disruption, or health impacts.
Freezing rain is expected to start near midday today and end early this evening, accompanied by periods of rain, snow or ice pellets. Late this afternoon, it will fall as either rain or snow, changing to snow (just 2 cm) as the temperature drops this evening.
Additional information:
Freezing rain, which may be mixed with snow or ice pellets at times, is expected to change over to rain or snow as an area of low pressure moves through southern Ontario. Areas near the Lake Ontario shoreline may see very little ice accretion or build-up.
Power Outages Possible
Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible. Some property damage is possible.
Road conditions
As a result of the freezing rain, getting around the city by car or on foot is expected to become slippery rapidly. Icy surfaces could be difficult to detect.
What is a Yellow Weather Alert?
The Government of Canada has introduced colour-coded weather alerts. The colours tell you what risk the weather is to you. Every type of weather alert—Warnings, Advisories, and Watches—now has a colour when it is issued. The weather alert colours move from yellow, to orange, to red, as the potential risk increases. A Yellow Status warning means Hazardous weather may cause damage, disruption, or health impacts. Impacts are moderate, localized and/or short-term. Yellow alerts are the most common.
For road conditions and other traveller information from the Ministry of Transportation, visit https://www.ontario.ca/511, https://www.twitter.com/511Ontario, or call 5-1-1.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on X using #ONStorm.
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