Think you know winter? Let’s clear up these common myths

Toronto: Think you’ve got winter all figured out? Well, you might be surprised! There are some common myths about winter weather that need a little debunking.

First off, let’s tackle the idea that it’s too cold to snow. That’s a big nope! Snow can actually fall at any temperature below freezing, and sometimes even a bit above, as long as there’s moisture in the air.

Now, when it’s super cold, the snowflakes tend to be light and powdery. But when it’s closer to freezing, you get those heavy, wet snowfalls because the air can hold more moisture. So, yes, it can snow in the cold—it just looks different!

Next, many people think a blizzard just means a lot of snow. But it’s really about the wind and visibility. For it to be a blizzard, we need sustained winds of at least 40 km/h and visibility under 400 meters for four hours. It’s a bit more technical than you might think!

And here’s something to watch out for: freezing rain can be more dangerous than snowstorms. It happens when snow melts in a warm layer and then refreezes on cold surfaces, creating a slick, icy mess that can wreak havoc on roads and power lines.

Lastly, if there’s a La Niña pattern, it doesn’t mean everyone will be buried in snow. While places like B.C. might see more snow, areas like Ontario and Quebec can actually have milder winters, thanks to the jet stream.

Now that we’ve cleared up these winter myths, you’re all set to tackle the season! Stay tuned for any weather surprises that might come your way!