Municipalities in Durham are struggling to cope with the amount of snow that has been dumped on the region in recent days.
Even as the municipal snow plows and tractors are clearing roadways and streets, residents are vocal on social media about the substantial windrows they leave behind in front of driveways.
High mounds of snow can be found almost everywhere with some roads even being closed to facilitate clearing operations from clogged up streets and sidewalks. Clean-up will take time.
The Municipality of Clarington announced: “Clarington crews will be out clearing excess snow from several downtown areas to keep the streets and sidewalks safe and accessible. To help facilitate the snow removal process, the following roads will be closed at the times noted below. Due to heavy snow accumulations, additional closures may be necessary,” the municipality said.
Bowmanville Road Closures: Wednesday, February 19, at 10 pm to Thursday, February 20, at 7 am
- King Street, between Scugog Street and George Street
- Division Street, between Church Street and King Street
- Temperance Street, between Church Street and King Street
Newcastle Road Closures: Thursday, February 20, from midnight to 7 am
- King Street West, between North Street and Aurther Street
Orono Road Closures: Thursday, February 20, from 2 to 7 am
- Main Street, between Mill Street and Station Street
- Centreview Street, between Main Street and Church Street
- Park Street, between Main Street and Church StreetParking reminder
Officials are requesting residents to avoid overnight parking in these areas. Vehicles left overnight may be ticketed or towed.
The Township of Brock extended its heartfelt gratitude to all residents for their continued patience and understanding. “Currently, staff are assessing the situation and have started compiling a list of priority areas that require attention in removing excess snow. Marydel subdivision and other critical areas in the township are at the top of that list, and we are working to address these areas as soon as possible.
Additionally, the township has reached out to local and area contractors to assist with operations, ensuring that all resources are available to help expedite the process.
Be Safe with Children
While our crews are removing snow, residents should stay away from heavy equipment and keep particular attention on their children to keep them safe. These vehicles have blind spots that may prevent operators from seeing residents and cars. Snowy days and cancelled school bus days often bring the urge to build snow forts. Snow forts should not be built in the boulevard portions of the road as they are dangerous. Plow operators cannot see children playing.
At a Special Council Meeting yesterday, council authorized the Director of Public Works to spend reasonable and needed funds from the Winter Control Reserve to achieve the removal of excess snow and staff will keep Council updated frequently.
The City of Pickering said while a cold weather warning is in effect, the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex will be a designated warming centre. Leashed pets are welcome provided they are well controlled by their owner. This warning began on Tuesday, February 18 and will continue until Friday, February 21.
The Town of Whitby said its crews were working hard to clear town-maintained sidewalks. “The weight of the snow, the cold temperatures, and the wind are making it a slower process than usual. We are doing everything possible to get sidewalks cleared.”
The Township of Uxbridge advised that a portion of the sidewalk on Mill Street was temporarily closed due to snow accumulation. The section impacted is between Toronto Street South and Bascom Street. The sidewalk will re-open once township crews are able to remove the snow. The township is still under a significant weather event designation and will update the situation today while they continue to clear roadways.
The Township of Scugog announced that its crews will be conducting snow removal operations on Queen Street early morning, February 19. “We anticipate that this cleaning will be done by 8am.”
Region of Durham offered a huge thank you to Durham Works maintenance crews who have been working diligently to keep roads safe and clear. “Drivers are reminded to please be patient and cautious around snowplows as operators have limited visibility and must travel at reduced speeds.”
Region’s Snow Clearing Reminders:
- The region uses a priority system for plowing roads/salting during a winter storm, with salting and plowing beginning on high-use roadways and then moving on to residential streets.
- Please make way for snowplows. If you see salters or plows working, please give them space. Do not follow too closely or try to pass.
- Vehicles parked on roads while snow clearing is in operation may be ticketed and/or towed.
- Occasional Use Parking Permits will not be issued.
- Property owners are required to completely clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property by midnight the day after a snow, sleet or freezing rain event.
Winter Fire Safety
- If a fire hydrant is in front of your home or business, remove accumulations of snow and ice around the fire hydrant.
- Remove snow accumulations around exit doors, stairways and fire escapes so that occupants have safe ways out in an emergency.
- Keep vents for furnaces, water heaters, dryers and other gas-fueled appliances clear of snow.
Extreme Cold reminders:
- Check on vulnerable friends, neighbours, family and pets to ensure they are not experiencing any difficulties related to the weather.
- Durham Region outreach staff actively patrol the city to refer individuals without shelter or needing support services. If you see or know someone in need of shelter, call the Region at 3-1-1 or email Homelesshelp@Durham.ca
- If you do go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin and stay dry. Frequently warm up by taking regular breaks in heated buildings.
Updates:
- Check alerts and forecasts on the Environment Canada website
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