Ice accretion, heavy snow and high winds delivers a winter wallop to the Nickel City area
Greater Sudbury and area are being walloped by a major winter storm that will continue through this evening.
The winter storm warning issued by Environment Canada said to expect freezing rain with ice accretion of between 10 and 15 mm, heavy snow of 10-20 cm and high winds gusting from 60-70 km/h. The heavy snowfall coupled with blowing snow has reduced visibility across the city.
The City of Greater Sudbury declared a significant weather event as a result, meaning all roads and sidewalks are considered in a “state of repair” until further notice. Crews are deployed across the city but they have their work cut out for them.
“Please avoid non-essential travel and outdoor activities and prepare for disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities,” a tweet from the city states. “Stay safe and monitor official updates.”
Issued in accordance with Ontario Consolidated Regulation 239/02 under the Municipal Act, the weather event indicates that all roads and sidewalks maintained by the city are considered in a “state of repair” until further notice.
Garbage and recycling collection service may be affected during the storm, meaning it may take longer than usual to complete collection.
Curious where crews are deployed or about other city winter operations? Check out this handy chart that outlines where crews are and other relevant info.
Last season, the city launched a service that allows residents to track the snowplows on an online map. The Track My Plow interactive tool is back for another season, providing almost real-time updates on service times for roads and sidewalks. Visit GreaterSudbury.ca/PlowMap to check it out.
The city also reminds drivers of their responsibilities when it comes to snowplows.
“Please drive according to weather and road conditions. Exercise a high degree of caution around operating plows and give them space to clear the roads,” the city said in the news release. “The City will issue advisories as winter weather and snow events happen. Updates and information are posted via social media on X @greatersudbury) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/greatersudbury).”
The storm prompted the closure of both Science North and Dynamic Earth today. If you are aware of other closures let us know in the comments below or email [email protected].
The city also reminded drivers of an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act that prohibits the improper passing of snowplows when they are working side-by-side on a multi-lane road or highway with a posted speed limit of 80 km/h or more.
“Motorists may only pass a plow truck if a full lane is available to complete the manoeuvre safely. In order for a lane to be considered available, no part of a snowplow, including an attachment or blade, should overlap,” the city said. “A conviction would result in a fine between $150 to $1,000.”