The most dangerous snowfall isn’t what you think

Toronto: You know how it goes—it’s the snow you didn’t see coming that messes up your day. It’s not always the big snowstorms that cause the most trouble. In fact, those little dustings can create the sneakiest road hazards.

Let’s break down why these smaller snowfalls can be more disruptive than the big ones. It all comes down to timing and conditions. When a big storm hits, everyone knows to prepare. But those little flurries? They can catch you off guard.

Picture this: a heavy snowfall at night might not be as bad as just a bit of snow during rush hour. That’s when the roads are packed, and any snow can really throw a wrench in your plans. Toronto already has one of the slowest commutes in North America, and a surprise snowfall can turn a long drive into a nightmare.

And then there’s the temperature. You wake up to a forecast that looks fine, but by the afternoon, it’s dropping. Wet snow can turn into a slushy mess, making it hard to drive. Plus, if it freezes, you’re left with slick ice that can make stopping a real challenge.

Another thing? Weather forecasts can be tricky. You might think you’re in the clear, but then a sudden snow squall hits right when you’re trying to get home. It’s a recipe for chaos, and it’s not just Toronto that faces this issue.

Take Vancouver, for example. Back in November 2022, drivers were stuck for over 12 hours because of a heavy snowfall that caught everyone off guard. And Calgary had its own mess when a sudden snowstorm hit after weeks of mild weather, leading to a bunch of minor accidents.

So, while we often brace for the big storms, it’s those sneaky little snowfalls that can really mess with our commutes. This winter, let’s keep an eye out for those unexpected flurries and hope city crews can stay ahead of the game.