A powerful snowstorm that blanketed southwestern Ontario and forced widespread road closures across multiple counties has largely passed, but the aftermath continues to affect residents. As of Wednesday morning, thousands of people, hampered by heavy snow, high winds, and treacherous road conditions, began the process of digging out and trying to return to normal life.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) had to close major provincial highways throughout Huron, Perth, Grey, and Bruce counties on Tuesday in response to the snowstorm that began over the weekend. The storm caused heavy snow accumulation and severe blowing winds, making travel dangerous. In some areas like Kincardine, Brockton, and Saugeen Shores, rural municipal roads and some town roads were also shut down to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
By Wednesday morning, some of the closed roads had reopened, but many remained impassable. Drivers were urged to stay updated on local weather conditions and check for the most current information regarding road closures.
According to Grey Bruce OPP Constable Krista Linthorne, the storm caused a significant number of collisions. “Yesterday alone, we had 38 collisions, four of which involved seven or more vehicles,” said Linthorne. “Injuries ranged from no injuries to minor injuries.” These accidents highlight the dangers that continue to persist due to the hazardous road conditions.
The snowstorm began on Saturday and continued through the long weekend, dumping a significant amount of snow across much of the province. While snowfall began to ease in Middlesex, Huron, and Perth counties by Family Day on Monday, Grey and Bruce counties experienced persistent snow and blizzard-like conditions well into Tuesday. Environment Canada issued snow squall warnings in these areas, forecasting an additional 70 centimeters of snow in some parts by Tuesday night, which added to the already significant snowbanks.
One of the most visible impacts of the storm was the massive snowbanks lining both sides of Ontario Highway 6 in Bruce County. The snowbanks were so large that they nearly towered over the roads, creating difficult travel conditions and low visibility for drivers.
As authorities warned of dangerous conditions, Grey Bruce OPP urged drivers to limit travel to essential trips only, emphasizing the importance of staying off the roads unless absolutely necessary. “If you don’t need to travel, stay home and wait out the storm,” Linthorne advised, urging residents to be patient as snow and wind continued to affect road conditions.
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In communities like Kincardine, Brockton, and Saugeen Shores, staying at home became the only option for many residents, including local officials. Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau shared his experience with CBC News, admitting that he was also stuck at home, much like other residents in the community. “We’re hunkered down, shoveling our driveways and trying to stay warm,” Charbonneau said, adding, “If you don’t absolutely need to go anywhere, don’t go.”
Charbonneau also echoed the sentiments of many locals, describing the snowfall as overwhelming and even fun for some. “It’s more snow than I’ve seen in a lot of years,” he said. “But people are making the best of it.”
While many people were stranded indoors due to road closures, the community rallied together to share vital information and provide support to one another. One key figure in this effort was Justin Morrison, a Huron East councillor for Brussels, who runs a Facebook page called Huron-Perth Weather Watch. With over 15,000 members, the page has become an essential resource for locals seeking real-time information about road closures and weather conditions.
Morrison’s effort to create an interactive map of road closures in the affected areas has been invaluable. “Every time there’s a road closure, I update the map and publish it for people to use,” Morrison said. The map, which uses Google Maps, shows up-to-date information about where roads are closed or open, helping people navigate through the storm’s aftermath.
In addition to offering practical updates, the group has also seen locals helping each other by answering questions and sharing tips. Morrison emphasized the strong sense of community that emerged during this challenging time. “Everyone’s asking questions, and it’s really great to see how the community comes together to help,” he said.
Despite the snow easing in some areas, heavy winds continued to create blowing snow in parts of Perth and Huron counties. Government officials and police are urging residents to remain patient as plow crews work to clear roads, with some areas still waiting for snow removal. Charbonneau noted that even in places where the snow has stopped, it takes time to clear so many roads, especially with crews working around the clock.
While many roads are closed, some still lack barriers, and drivers are urged to avoid driving whenever possible. Local authorities continue to monitor conditions, asking everyone to stay informed and exercise caution. As the storm’s effects continue to subside, residents are reminded to stay patient and wait for conditions to improve before venturing out.
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