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Winter Weather Warnings

HomeWeatherWinter Weather Warnings

Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Canada Scene Weather Desk. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada and other national met services via Open-Meteo.

Winter weather warnings in Canada are issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for hazards including heavy snow, blizzards, freezing rain, and extreme cold. These alerts are updated continuously and vary by region—from southern Ontario to the territories—making them essential for travel planning, especially during snowbird and March-break season.

What types of winter weather warnings are there?

ECCC issues specific warnings for different winter hazards. Snowfall warnings require at least 15 cm in 12 hours, while blizzard warnings combine strong winds and heavy snow. Freezing rain warnings and extreme cold warnings are also common, especially in areas like southern Ontario and the Prairies. For a full list of current alerts, see our Canada weather hub and weather warning page.

Where can I find winter weather warnings today?

Check Environment Canada’s weather.gc.ca for official warnings. For a broader view, our Ontario weather warnings today and southern Ontario weather warning today pages list active alerts across the province. Many travellers also use The Weather Network for regional forecasts. Winter weather warnings today can affect multiple regions, so it pays to check a Canada weather warnings overview before heading out.

Issuing authorityEnvironment and Climate Change Canada
Typical warning typesSnowfall, blizzard, freezing rain, extreme cold
Highest risk regionsSouthern Ontario, Prairies, Atlantic Canada, Yukon
Average duration12–48 hours depending on storm
What is the difference between a winter storm watch and a warning?

A watch means conditions are possible within 36 hours; a warning means the hazardous weather is imminent or occurring. Warnings require immediate action, such as delaying travel. Check our weather alert page for details.

How are winter weather warnings issued for multiple states or provinces?

ECCC issues warnings by region; they may cover several provinces when a large storm crosses the country. This is similar to winter weather warnings multiple states in the US, where a single system can trigger alerts across many jurisdictions, sometimes up to 17 states.

Where can I see a winter weather warnings map?

Environment Canada’s website offers a map view of all active warnings. You can also use our Canada weather warnings hub or the winter weather warnings map on The Weather Network for a visual overview of affected areas.