Winter Storm Triggers Snow Events in Waterloo Region
The Waterloo region is currently experiencing significant winter weather conditions, prompting several municipalities to declare snow events. Street parking bans will be enforced for 24 hours as authorities work to address the impact of the snow.
Details of Snow Events in Waterloo Region
Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo have each declared snow events with specific start times. Cambridge’s snow event commenced at 12 p.m. on Monday. Kitchener and Waterloo followed suit, initiating their events at 11:59 p.m. the same day.
- Cambridge: Sidewalks must be cleared within 36 hours post-snowfall.
- Waterloo: Sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours post-snowfall.
City officials in Cambridge have emphasized that residential roads typically do not receive salt treatment, which means snow may accumulate on those surfaces. Plowing efforts will focus on major roads and transit routes before addressing residential streets.
Bob Henderson, the Director of Transportation Services for Waterloo, advised residents to be patient as crews address the snow. He also noted efforts to conserve salt, particularly on low-traffic roadways.
Significant Weather Events in Woolwich and Wilmot
The Townships of Woolwich and Wilmot have also declared significant weather events. Woolwich defined this declaration as a reminder for drivers to exercise caution during adverse weather conditions. The municipality clarified that this does not imply reduced service levels or road closures.
Wilmot’s special weather event began at 5 p.m. on Monday, with an assurance that the public would be informed once the declaration is canceled. Regular road maintenance will resume according to the Ontario Minimum Maintenance Standards at that time.
Weather Advisories and Conditions
Weather advisories remain in effect across the Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County. Rain has transitioned to snow accompanied by strong winds, leading to a yellow snow squall warning by Environment and Climate Change Canada.
- Snow Accumulation: Up to 40 cm expected in certain areas.
- Wind Gusts: Expected to reach 70 km/h.
Authorities cautioned that driving conditions could become hazardous due to blowing snow and poor visibility. Police in Guelph issued warnings about icy surfaces resulting from the storm.
Utility Outages and Flood Warnings
Residents have faced utility outages, with more than 4,500 customers experiencing disruptions in Waterloo region due to icy conditions. Enova Energy reported that crews worked through the night to restore power, although additional outages are expected with continued snow squalls and high winds.
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has issued flood warnings for Drayton, indicating that river flows are expected to rise significantly. New Hamburg and Ayr are under flood watch messages, highlighting the potential for flooding in those areas. Residents in flood-prone regions are advised to take precautions.
Safety Reminders
As conditions remain unstable, the GRCA encourages everyone to stay away from ice-covered waterbodies and to keep children and pets away from watercourses. Increased awareness is vital for safety during these challenging winter weather events.
