Winter storm freezes holiday plans for Canadians, disrupts Via Rail travel between Ontario, Quebec

(Spencer Colby/The Canadian Press - image credit)The latest:Across Ontario, Quebec, B.C. Utility companies are making headway in their efforts to restore power to hundreds of thousands of people across Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia and the Maritime provinces. In many parts of the country, including Ontario and B.C., officials are urging motorists to avoid travel if possible as treacherous winter conditions continue. Environment Canada is warning blizzards, strong winds and other stormy weather in parts of Ontario and Quebec will likely continue into Christmas. Air Canada is warning of further flight disruptions in Vancouver, Toronto, Quebec City and Montreal through to Christmas Day.