Polar Vortex Chills GTA with January-Long Freeze

Casey Halston

ago 2 hours

Polar Vortex Chills GTA with January-Long Freeze

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is currently experiencing a significant cold snap as Arctic air vents into the region. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as the “polar vortex,” is expected to linger throughout January. The chilling temperatures have led to readings as low as -13°C in Toronto, with the wind chill making it feel as cold as -24°C.

Current Temperature Highlights

Toronto: -13°C, feels like -24°C
Vaughan: -13°C, feels like -19°C
Oshawa: -13°C, feels like -22°C

Weather Patterns and Forecast

Meteorologist Ross Hull from Global News explains that the polar vortex brings the coldest air from the Arctic Circle into southern regions. The current air mass is anticipated to stay over the GTA for at least the remainder of January.

For the final two weeks of January, temperatures are expected to be several degrees below normal as a persistent trough of cold air remains. A brief break from the severe cold is anticipated midweek, courtesy of an Alberta clipper system. This system may temporarily raise temperatures closer to zero, though it will also bring some snowfall.

Snow Expectations

While the Alberta clipper is expected to deliver some snow, it will not reach the levels seen in previous weeks. Estimates indicate about five centimeters of snowfall in Toronto, with areas like Scarborough and southern Durham possibly receiving up to eight centimeters due to local lake enhancement.

Upcoming Temperature Trends

Temperatures in the GTA are forecasted to dip again later in the week. Toronto could experience lows of -4°C by Thursday, followed by a chilling -11°C on Friday and Saturday. Wind chill factors may cause temperatures to feel as low as -30°C during this period.

Community Response

In response to the frigid conditions, several communities, including Toronto and Peel Region, have opened warming and emergency shelters. While Environment Canada has not issued an extreme cold alert, they remind residents that caution is necessary when temperatures fall below zero. Risks such as frostbite and windburn become prevalent during these extreme conditions.