School Bus Cancellations Widespread Across GTA Amidst Winter Storm
A significant winter storm has led to widespread school bus cancellations across Toronto and the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as freezing rain, snow, and icy conditions create hazardous travel conditions. While most schools remain open, transportation has been significantly impacted.
School Board Cancellations
- Toronto District School Board (TDSB): All school buses are cancelled today due to weather-related delays and deteriorating conditions. Schools remain open. CTV News
- Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB): All bus service is cancelled due to freezing rain and icy roads. CTV News
- York Region District School Board (YRDSB): All transportation services, including buses and taxis, are cancelled. Schools remain open. CTV News
- Peel Region (PDSB & DPCDSB): All bus service is cancelled in Zones 1, 2, and 3. Schools remain open. CTV News
- Durham Region: Transportation is cancelled in all four zones due to worsening weather and road conditions. All Durham schools are open. CTV News
- Halton Region (HDSB & HCDSB): Transportation is cancelled across all zones. Schools remain open. CTV News
- Hamilton (HWDSB): Schools are closed for the day. CTV News
- Hamilton (HWCDSB): School buses are cancelled, but schools are open. CTV News
Winter Storm Warning
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for Toronto and surrounding regions. The warning indicates a mix of snow, freezing rain, and ice pellets, with up to 5 cm of snow and ice pellets possible. Multiple hours of freezing rain are possible, particularly west of Toronto, with potential ice buildup of a few millimetres. Environment Canada, CBC News
The hazardous conditions are expected to affect both the morning and evening commutes. Roads and walkways will likely be tricky to navigate, and travel conditions may be more hazardous than heavy snowfall due to reduced traction from ice pellets. Environment Canada
Commuting Concerns
Metrolinx is warning of potential delays to GO Transit and UP Express service due to the forecast. Commuters are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel. CBC News
Precipitation is expected to diminish in intensity by evening, although freezing drizzle may continue overnight.