Story perspectives

Toronto Faces Record Snowstorm: 60 cm, Flight Cancellations, Hazardous Roads

1/27/2026

35 3

Summary

Story summary

Toronto is facing its largest snowfall on record, with nearly 60 cm reported since the storm began on Sunday.
The storm has caused over 500 flight cancellations at Pearson International Airport and led to school closures and hazardous driving conditions, resulting in over 430 collisions, including one fatality.
Mayor Olivia Chow declared a "major snowstorm condition," and city officials are focusing on clearing main roadways.
The snowfall results from Arctic air colliding with moist tropical air, while some residents are enjoying winter activities like sledding and skiing.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1888, which struck from March 11 to 14, resulted in over 400 deaths and paralyzed the northeastern United States. With snowdrifts exceeding 50 inches, transportation systems were severely disrupted, prompting infrastructure changes like underground railways. This historic storm's impact resonates today, as recent snowfall in Toronto highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in urban preparedness for extreme weather events.

1 of 2

Story summary

Toronto is facing its largest snowfall on record, with nearly 60 cm reported since the storm began on Sunday.
The storm has caused over 500 flight cancellations at Pearson International Airport and led to school closures and hazardous driving conditions, resulting in over 430 collisions, including one fatality.
Mayor Olivia Chow declared a "major snowstorm condition," and city officials are focusing on clearing main roadways.
The snowfall results from Arctic air colliding with moist tropical air, while some residents are enjoying winter activities like sledding and skiing.

1 / 2