Wintry Wallop Hits Lakeshore

Mix of wind, snow, and icy temps impacting holiday travel 

UPDATE (December 23, 2022, 2:00 PM): Sustained high winds continue to reduce visibility on local roadways.

Residents are asked to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.

Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.

Lakeshore staff are continuing salting and snow clearing operations.

Follow Environment Canada's weather alerts for more information on local conditions and hazards.

ORIGINAL (December 22, 2022): The Municipality of Lakeshore is putting the call out to community members ahead of an upcoming winter storm, which is forecasted to bring a mix of rain, snow, wind, and sub-zero temperatures later today and into the weekend. 

“If we get the amount of freezing rain and snow that’s predicted, it will be an all-hands-on-deck approach with operators salting and plowing local roads around the clock,” said Jeff Wilson, Division Leader - Roads, Parks, and Facilities. “Keeping roads safe is our top priority during these storm events so we are asking all residents to help us by reducing barriers to our snow-clearing operations, which means moving parked vehicles and other obstacles from local roads.” 

Parked vehicles can either delay clearing or increase the amount of time to clear a road, particularly on cul-de-sacs and near curb extensions. Vehicles found to be blocking snow-clearing operations may be towed at the owner’s expense. 

During and after significant snowfalls, residents should also:  

• Refrain from shovelling snow onto roads. 
• Keep garbage and recycle bins off roads. 
• Maintain a safe driving distance from all snowplows and service vehicles. 
• Keep kids from playing on or around snowbanks and mounded snow until snow-clearing operations are complete. 

“We’re asking everyone for their patience and support as Lakeshore staff work to clear snow and ice from local roads,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “The timing of this storm is a reminder of many of our staff who may work through weekends and holidays, giving up time with their loved ones, to ensure critical services are sustained. We appreciate all they do to keep our communities safe.” 

During winter storm events, snow-clearing operations will first take place on priority routes. Secondary roads, such as those within subdivisions, will be cleared as quickly as possible after priority routes. To review road classifications, please visit Lakeshore.ca/SnowSafety. 

“We will continue to monitor the impact of this winter storm and update community members as needed,” Wilson added. 

Local drivers should plan additional time for commuting and necessary trips, and always drive to current road conditions. High winds may cause reduced visibility and snow drifts in some areas. 

Visitors to Lakeshore’s facilities and recreation centres should also exercise caution as snow accumulation is expected in area parking lots. 

For the most up-to-date weather alerts and travel warnings, please tune into your local TV or radio station, or visit the Government of Canada’s Weather Alerts page.