Content: Ontario Provincial Police reported a significant increase in traffic incidents following a heavy snowfall in the Greater Toronto Area. Over a 24-hour period, approximately 340 snow-related incidents were recorded, including 220 collisions and around 120 vehicles that ended up in ditches or became stuck in snow. OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt described the situation as a "very busy 24 hours," noting that while most collisions were minor, some serious accidents occurred on Highway 400, resulting in critical injuries for a few individuals.

The snowfall began on Sunday and continued into the night, leading to icy conditions on the roads. Schmidt explained that the snow accumulation caught many drivers off guard. "Sometimes we hear about it and it turns out to be nothing, but we actually got some pretty significant snow accumulation," he said. He added that temperatures dropped quickly after the snowfall, turning the snow on the ground into hard, crusty ice.

Environment Canada reported that Toronto Pearson International Airport received about 10 centimeters of snow, while Hamilton saw 17 centimeters. The agency had issued a special weather statement ahead of the storm, warning residents of widespread snowfall across southern Ontario, from London to Ottawa.

Typically, Toronto's first significant snowfall occurs later in the season. Historical data indicates that the average date for the first 5-centimeter accumulation at Pearson Airport is December 12, with the first 10-centimeter total usually arriving around Christmas. However, heavy November snowfalls are rare. The last time Toronto experienced a double-digit snowfall in November was on November 30, 1987, when over 12 centimeters fell.

As cleanup efforts continue, Schmidt advised drivers to ensure their vehicles are clear of ice and snow before hitting the roads. He warned that while highways are mostly wet, sidewalks and side roads remain icy and could lead to sliding.

Looking ahead, the weather forecast indicates a high of 1 degree Celsius on Monday, but it will feel closer to -12 degrees Celsius with wind chill. A 30% chance of flurries is expected, with temperatures rising slightly to 3 degrees Celsius on Tuesday. However, rain and milder temperatures are anticipated later in the week, with highs of 7 degrees Celsius on Wednesday and 6 degrees Celsius on Thursday.

Schmidt emphasized the importance of winter tires for safe driving in these conditions, stating, "If you haven’t put them on, you kind of missed your opportunity." He noted that tire shops are likely to be busy as drivers seek to prepare for winter weather.