A major winter storm paralyzed much of southern Ontario on Thursday, January 15, 2026, leading to a significant collision involving a GO train and a snow plow, widespread transportation disruptions, and a plea from officials for the public to avoid travel.
Storm Causes Major Transit Disruption and Hundreds of Crashes
The intense weather system, which delivered up to 40 centimetres of snow and frigid temperatures to parts of the Greater Toronto Area, created hazardous conditions across the region. The most dramatic incident occurred when a GO train collided with a snow plow on the tracks. While full details of the collision are still emerging, the incident underscores the extreme challenges posed by the storm.
Roadways were equally treacherous. Police reported more than 150 crashes across the GTA as the snow piled up throughout the day. The Canadian Automobile Association had urged drivers to "plan and prepare" before venturing out, but the sheer volume of snow quickly overwhelmed many major routes.
Widespread Closures and Cancellations Across the Region
The storm's impact extended far beyond the roads. Numerous school boards cancelled classes and bus services, keeping thousands of students at home. A long list of weather-related closures and cancellations was issued for Toronto and surrounding municipalities, affecting everything from city services to recreational programs.
Authorities declared snow events in several southwestern Ontario communities, including Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Wilmot, triggering parking restrictions and heightened snow-clearing operations. The message from officials was unanimous and clear: residents should stay home if possible to allow crews to work and to ensure personal safety.
Cleanup and Commuting Challenges Continue
As the region began the arduous task of digging out from the historic snowfall, attention turned to the afternoon commute. Officials warned that despite plow efforts, roads remained slippery and visibility was poor due to blowing snow. The collision between the GO train and plow also caused delays and service adjustments on certain rail lines, complicating the evening travel picture.
This storm, notable for its intensity and rapid accumulation, serves as a stark reminder of winter's disruptive potential in southern Ontario. The event prompted renewed warnings about the importance of heeding weather alerts and preparing for severe conditions, which are expected to linger with continued cold temperatures in the aftermath.
