From Flurries to Sunshine: What Travellers Need to Know This Long Weekend
NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO & MANITOBA – TRAVEL AND WEATHER REPORT – April 17, 2025 – Easter weekend is shaping up to be a mixed bag across Ontario and into southern Manitoba, with everything from sunshine and double-digit highs to flurries and slick roads. Whether you’re hitting the Trans-Canada Highway, heading to a family cottage, or just popping over to Grandma’s for a turkey dinner, it’s a good time to be extra weather-wise—and drive smart.
Weather Overview for Travellers
Across Northern Ontario, communities like Sioux Lookout, Dryden, Kenora, and Geraldton are experiencing classic spring indecisiveness—mild days followed by a potential return of snow overnight Thursday into Friday. Rain showers and flurries will make for slippery conditions, particularly Friday morning, so early travellers should allow extra time.
In Sudbury, Wawa, and Greenstone, rain is expected Thursday night into Friday, followed by periods of snow and freezing temperatures, especially into Friday evening. If you’re travelling through these areas, be ready for changing visibility and icy patches—particularly on secondary highways.
Toronto and Southern Ontario fare better overall, with sunshine Thursday, spring showers on Friday, and mostly mild and manageable conditions through Easter Monday. Greater Toronto Area roads should stay in good shape, but urban traffic will spike—especially Friday and Monday afternoon. Be patient and pack snacks!
Winnipeg, meanwhile, kicks off the weekend with a temperature dip and flurries on Friday, followed by a dramatic warm-up into the high teens by Sunday and Monday. Expect icy roads Friday, especially during the morning commute, but a beautiful payoff for those sticking around for the long weekend.
Road Conditions: Check Before You Go
As of this morning, 511ON.ca reports generally bare and wet roads across most of southern Ontario, but conditions vary in the northwest. Highway 17 and Highway 11 corridors through Thunder Bay, Dryden, and up to Greenstone may see localized slick spots overnight Thursday into Friday due to light snow and freezing rain potential. Keep an eye out for roadwork zones and early spring potholes, particularly in more remote or lesser-maintained areas.
Motorists should regularly consult 511ON.ca for the latest road closures, construction alerts, and driving advisories before departing. It’s updated in real-time and includes traffic cameras, incident reports, and highway condition summaries.
Safety First: Drive Sober This Easter Weekend
With increased travel and holiday gatherings ahead, it’s critical to remember: if you’re drinking or using any impairing substances—don’t drive. Plan ahead with a designated driver, taxi, rideshare, or overnight stay.
Driving sober saves lives—yours, your family’s, and everyone else’s on the road. It’s not just a legal issue; it’s a life-or-death decision.
Police services across Ontario and Manitoba will be conducting RIDE programs and enhanced patrols this weekend. Celebrate responsibly and make it home safely.
Traveller’s Quick Tips:
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Pack for variety: you may need rain gear, warm layers, and sunglasses all in one weekend.
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Top up washer fluid and check tire pressure before heading out—spring grime is real.
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Watch for wildlife, especially at dusk and dawn on rural roads.
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Don’t rush—take your time and enjoy the journey.
From sunny Toronto to snowy Geraldton, Easter 2025 is offering a full Canadian spring sampler. Safe travels and Happy Easter!