Toronto is in the midst of a major cleanup operation after a significant snowstorm blanketed the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The city is bracing for another round of snowfall expected to arrive on Friday, complicating recovery efforts.
City Response and Ongoing Challenges
Mayor Olivia Chow announced that the City of Toronto is deploying 100 additional staff from other municipal divisions to assist with snow clearing operations. Officials have cautioned residents that these large-scale cleanup efforts require significant time. In response to the frigid conditions, the city opened two additional warming centres by 5 p.m. on Thursday.
The storm's impact on transportation has been severe. A collision involving a Via Rail train and a snowplow caused major delays for GO Transit services in the east end. On the roads, southbound Highway 400 was closed at Finch Avenue due to a separate collision that left one driver critically injured. Pearson International Airport reported numerous delays and cancellations as crews worked to keep runways clear.
Widespread Disruptions and Safety Advisories
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) reported that while subway service was running relatively well, its bus and streetcar networks were experiencing cancellations. Adding to the transit woes, the Finch LRT was officially closed due to a combination of track issues and ongoing snow clearing.
Most school boards across the GTA made the decision to close for the day, giving students an unexpected snow day. However, schools in Durham Region remained open, a decision that prompted questions from parents. Peel Regional Police issued driving safety tips, urging motorists to travel with an emergency kit including gloves, an emergency blanket, and extra windshield washer fluid.
Weather Outlook and Extended Alert
Despite the snow easing, Environment Canada maintained an orange-level weather alert for the region. A climatologist warned that the GTA is in for a long winter, stating, "Count those snowflakes, we're not finished yet." The forecast calls for more snow to move into the area on Friday, potentially hampering cleanup progress.
The storm's effects were felt across the community, from exhausted residents shovelling out to the strategic deployment of city resources. As Toronto continues its snow response, officials remind everyone to exercise caution, check on vulnerable neighbours, and stay updated on the latest weather and transit advisories.
