A winter system is bearing down on northern Ontario, prompting officials in Sault Ste. Marie to issue a warning about potentially dangerous conditions
The City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event with an anticipated winter storm on the horizon.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement forecasting hazardous conditions from Sunday evening through Monday night. The storm may bring a combination of freezing rain, snowfall, and strong winds.
Ice accretion of five to 10 mm is possible, along with snowfall totals of 20 to 40 cm. Wind gusts of 60 to 80 km/h may result in reduced visibility and blizzard-like conditions.
The declaration of a significant weather event is not a notice of a reduced level of service or road closures. Rather, it serves to advise the public that caution is required when travelling on city-maintained roads and that restoring roads to optimal conditions may take longer than usual. Public works staff continuously monitor the weather conditions and patrol roadways, deploying all available crews to address snow and ice accumulation.
During a significant event, all city-maintained roads and sidewalks are deemed to be in a “state of repair.” Motorists should drive according to the conditions and allow space for heavy equipment operators to safely and efficiently clear and sand roadways. The winter parking by-law remains in effect, prohibiting parking on city streets between midnight and 6 a.m.
During a winter storm event, motorists should not park on city streets or block sidewalks during the day to assist in snow removal operations. Transit Services reminds customers that service delays may occur due to adverse weather conditions.
