Published on Jan. 30, 2026, 4:49 PM
The city has been on high alert since December 28.
Barrie, Ontario is in the midst of a significant weather event. Between November 1 and January 28, more than 300 cm of snow, or 9.5 feet, have accumulated on the ground.
The unusual conditions prompted officials to put the city on “high” alert on December 28.
As of January 29, it is still in place, making it the longest standing declaration in Barrie’s history.
“Crews continue to restore winter maintenance standards across the city and are working around the clock in frigid conditions to ensure roads are plowed and safe for residents,” the city says in a statement.
“Snow lifts continue overnight to remove accumulation on arterial and collector roads in Barrie, with a focus on narrow curb lanes and on-street cycling lanes. In residential areas, there are contracted crews removing snow piles from cul-de-sacs. Crews also continue to address sight line concerns in areas where snow banks are very high.”
The snow has created large piles that have narrowed roads. Taken on January 13, 2026 in Barrie, Ont. (Mark Robinson).
Officials say the alert will remain in place until all narrowed roads and bicycle lanes are sufficiently cleared. The city is home to approximately 150,000 people.