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5 Things to Know Today (Oct. 1): Minimum Wage Hike, Cooler U.S. Inflation, Oil Below $100

  Thursday October 1, 2026 A new quarter, a higher minimum wage in Ontario and a softer inflation read south of the border. Here are the five things that matter to your wallet today. 1 Ontario's minimum wage rises to $17.95 today Ontario's general minimum wage climbs 35 cents, from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, as of October 1 — a roughly 2% bump tied to Ontario's CPI. The student rate goes to $16.90 (from $16.60) and the homeworker rate to $19.70. A full-time worker at 40 hours a week earns about $718 a week before deductions. Federally regulated workers already have an $18.15 floor, which has applied since April 1. What it means for you: If you pay anyone by the hour — a cleaner, a part-time helper, a seasonal worker — hours worked from today forward must be paid at no less than $17.95, even if the pay period started in September. Workers should check their next paycheque. 2 Cooler U.S. inflation eases the pressure on rate hikes The Fed's preferred inflation gauge came i...

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Severe Blizzard Conditions Persist in Ontario: Travel Advisory in Effect


Ontario continues to grapple with severe blizzard conditions, leading to widespread highway closures and hazardous travel conditions. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued blizzard warnings for several areas surrounding Lake Huron, including Owen Sound, Blue Mountains, and Saugeen Shores. 

The blizzard conditions are accompanied by strong, gusty winds, with speeds reaching up to 80 km/h, causing significant blowing snow and reduced visibility. The hardest-hit regions could see accumulations of 30-50 cm of snow, making travel extremely treacherous. 

Highway 21, from Ashfield to Southampton, has been closed due to poor conditions and a reported incident. Other affected highways include 10, 26, and parts of the 400, with potential bursts of snow reaching the northern Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and parts of the 401. 

ECCC advises against non-essential travel and urges those who must travel to keep others informed of their schedule and destination, carry an emergency kit, and stay updated on weather warnings. 

Stay safe and stay informed as conditions continue to deteriorate in Ontario's snowbelt regions.




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