A massive Arctic winter storm and deep freeze are blanketing much of North America this weekend, bringing historic cold, heavy snow and dangerous wind chill conditions from the U.S. Plains through eastern Canada. Federal and regional weather agencies have issued widespread cold and winter-weather warnings, with much of southern Ontario among the coldest regions on the continent. Travel disruptions, hazardous road conditions and extreme cold dangers are expected to persist through Sunday.
North America Temperature Outlook for Saturday and Sunday (Jan. 24–25)
Across central and eastern United States, temperatures will plunge well below normal with snow, sleet and ice spreading across many states, creating difficult travel conditions and potential flight disruptions. In Canada, Ontario and Quebec will see bitterly cold air dominate, with wind chills dropping toward or below -30° C in some areas, particularly overnight.
Weekend Outlook in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal
-
Toronto: Saturday’s high will struggle near -10° C, while wind chills could make it feel closer to -20° C or colder. Snow is likely to develop late in the weekend with Sunday continuing below-average temperatures and accumulating snow.
-
Ottawa: Extreme cold continues Saturday, with highs around -20° C and overnight lows dipping close to -29° C, with wind chill near -37° C. Sunday will remain frigid with a chance of light snow developing by afternoon.
-
Montreal: Similar Arctic conditions will grip the region, keeping temperatures far below normal throughout the weekend with additional snow likely as the storm tracks through.
Cities Open Warming Centres, Urge Community Support
With the deep freeze and wind chills posing serious health risks, city officials in Toronto have activated multiple warming centres for vulnerable residents, offering heat, rest areas, meals and other essential services, with several locations operating 24/7 as cold persists. Walk-in access is available and pet-friendly options are included at many sites.
In Ottawa and Montreal authorities have also been preparing community support services, including warming spaces, drop-in centres and connections to winter resources for those in need. Citizens are encouraged to contact local services (such as 2-1-1 in Ottawa) for details about available facilities, clothing resources and assistance as extreme cold continues.
Officials in all three cities are reminding residents to check on neighbours, especially older adults, people living alone and those who are vulnerable to cold weather, to ensure everyone stays safe through the weekend’s frigid conditions.
Post comments (0)