Environment Canada issued weather warnings for parts of Eastern Canada on Tuesday, as significant snowfall and "hazardous" winter conditions sweep over Toronto and other areas.
In a statement Tuesday, the weather agency said a snowstorm is expected to blow through Toronto for several hours, dumping up to 25 centimetres of the white stuff on the area.
Light snow began early in the day on Tuesday and intensified the evening, creating whiteout conditions in some areas.
Environment Canada is warning that the blowing snow, strong winds and poor visibility will have “a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas."
On Tuesday afternoon, Toronto temperatures dropped to about -8 C, but felt closer to -15 C with wind chill.
In response to the storm, the City of Toronto opened its two 24-hour cold weather drop-in centres, and announced that TTC tokens will be available at some centres.
Extreme conditions are also predicted elsewhere in the country.
Environment Canada is warning of blizzard conditions with visibility reduced to near zero in Montreal, and Quebec City is also under a blizzard warning.
The storm has already caused dozens of flight delays and cancellations at Toronto Pearson Airport and other airports in Eastern Canada.
Further disruptions are expected as the weather worsens overnight.
Airlines are asking passengers to check their flight status online or by phone before arriving at the airport.
The full list of affected areas is available on the Environment Canada website.
