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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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Arctic Chill and Lake-Effect Snow Squalls Grip Ontario

Ontario is currently experiencing a dangerous Arctic freeze, with lake-effect snow squalls continuing to impact the region. The Arctic airmass has brought bitterly cold temperatures, causing snow squalls off the still-unfrozen Great Lakes. Snow squall watches and warnings are in effect for several areas, with parts of southern Ontario expected to see over 40 cm of snow accumulation through Wednesday.

Extreme cold warnings have been issued for all of northern Ontario, where wind chills as low as -50°C are forecast. These frigid conditions pose a significant risk of frostbite and hypothermia, with temperatures expected to remain below freezing for the next few days.

Residents are advised to bundle up with extra layers, limit outdoor exposure, and be cautious while traveling due to poor visibility and slippery road conditions. Stay safe and warm during this extreme weather event!


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