The Blue Mountains, Ontario, is bracing for a messy storm on Boxing Day that could drop 5–15 cm of snow and up to 10 mm of ice accretion. The mix of heavy snow, ice pellets and freezing rain could make roads like Highway 26 and Grey Road 19 slick and hazardous. Collingwood and The Blue Mountains OPP typically issue ‘avoid travel’ or ‘avoid unnecessary travel’ advisories during icing events.
The Town of The Blue Mountains may declare a Significant Weather Event under the Ontario Municipal Act. If declared, standard winter maintenance timelines are suspended and plow crews will focus on main arteries; minor roads and sidewalks may see delays in clearing. Drivers should watch for black ice on known trouble spots such as Scenic Caves Road and the ‘S‑turns’ on Grey Road 19, where inclines and cold pockets can create hazardous surfaces.
Blue Mountain Resort says freezing rain poses a risk to lift cables and trail conditions. If ice accumulates on chairs, the resort may pause lift operations for de-icing and scheduled events could be postponed. Visitors are advised to check the resort’s weather and mountain reports before heading out.
Forecasters at The Weather Network note that a shift of just 0.5°C could significantly change the storm’s track or precipitation type, altering ice totals. Snow is expected to begin early on December 26, with a transition to freezing rain or drizzle possible by afternoon as warmer air moves in. Motorists and residents should allow extra travel time and monitor 511on.ca for real-time road conditions.
