The winter storm currently pounding the region has prompted the City of Greater Sudbury to declare a significant weather event.
That declaration was made at around 4 a.m. today and will continue until further notice.
The city said the winter storm is expected to bring:
- Freezing rain with 10–15 mm of ice accretion
- Snowfall of 10–20 cm
- Wind gusts of 60–70 km/h
- Reduced visibility in heavy snow and blowing snow
“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.
" This declaration is not necessarily a notice of a reduced level of service or a road closure; it is to notify drivers and pedestrians to use an appropriate level of caution when travelling during this event and avoid unnecessary travel," a news release from the city states. "City staff continue to work diligently to ensure public safety, but it may take longer than normal to maintain the roadways and sidewalks normally maintained during this season. Your cooperation is appreciated."
Garbage and recycling collection service may be affected during the storm, meaning it may take longer than usual to complete collection.
"Leisure programs and GOVA transit service schedules may also be impacted by the SWE," the release states. "Updates for any scheduled events or transit delays will be posted as required. You can also call 311 with specific questions. For real-time bus information, visit mybus.greatersudbury.ca."
This story will be updated when the city declares the weather event at an end.
"When the declaration is cancelled, the standard timeline for road winter maintenance will begin."