On track with this season's rainy and snowy trend, the overnight rain showers have tapered off and transitioned into flurries this morning! It feels like it’s been one wintery battle after another but rest assured that our crews are geared up and ready to make sure the transportation network is safe and passable!
Forecast
Flurries are expected to continue today with a daytime high of 3 degrees. The temperature is forecast to drop below zero this afternoon and periods of snow are expected to begin tonight with 2 to 4 centimetres possible. Periods of snow are expected to continue throughout the day tomorrow, with an additional 5 to 10 centimetres possible by tomorrow evening. Winds from the northwest at 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40 are expected overnight, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas. Cold temperatures return overnight, with a low of minus 13 and a wind chill of minus 23.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are commuting tomorrow morning, give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Parks Maintenance will also be out clearing and treating emergency service stations, libraries and community centers as well as some City facility parking lots.
Please be patient as our crews navigate variable weather conditions. As the temperature fluctuates, so will the conditions of the transportation network, and crews will adjust accordingly. Operations may take longer than usual, but rest assured, the team is hard at work.
Resident support is required
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job, and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Be a Hydrant Hero this winter and help keep your community safe by clearing a path from the curb and one metre around your local fire hydrant. Students can earn community involvement hours for their contribution.
- If it is your collection day, please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network over the next 48 hours, as weather advisories may be issued as the event draws closer. The team will be working nonstop to ensure the transportation network is in good condition for the morning commute.
