Toronto facing a bleak weather prognosis

Toronto is facing an epidemic of gloomy weather.

Symptoms include soggy boots, a grumpy attitude and a claustrophobic sensation as a result of sitting inside by the television all day. In some extreme cases, sufferers have experienced storm-drain syndrome, where a passing bus delivers a thorough soaking to pedestrians walking too close to the curb. Pain can be alleviated with a low dose of obscenities and fist-shaking.

According to Environment Canada, the problem is contagious. It has spread northward to most of southern Ontario from the U.S. eastern seaboard. The cold low pressure system over New York state and Pennsylvania was also to blame for Saturday’s thick fog.

Forecasters warn northeast winds could reach up to 60 km/h Sunday night and deliver more than 30 millimetres of rain. Side effects include chills, broken umbrellas and even cancelled dinner plans. Others will experience only grey skies, heavy cloud cover, frizzy hair and an overwhelming desire to complain.

It gets worse before it gets better, with rain expected in the forecast every day right up to Friday. And experts note a healthy spring temperature should be as high as 20 degrees for May.

Are there any bright spots?

Though Sunday's temperature only hit 9 degrees, it is expected to climb steadily this week, ultimately reaching about a high of 22 C by next Saturday.

Just don’t expect sunshine, the weather system will take time to run its course.

“This low [pressure system] is pretty slow-moving,” said Melody Yang, an Environment Canada meteorologist.

Right up to next weekend, we can expect the same weather, mostly cloudy, with a continuing chance of showers.

There is no cure for this condition. Residents are advised to do their best to stay dry and be mentally prepared for a week without sun.

— Zoe McKnight, Staff Reporter