Local plow operators were out in force on Saturday to clear the mess left by a powerful storm that has frozen holiday plans for many Canadians.
Maria Visocchi, communications manager for the City of Brantford, said operations services staff estimate the city will get between five and 10 centimeters of snow by the time the storm dies down on Christmas Eve.
In many parts of the country, including Ontario and BC, officials are urging motorists to avoid travel if possible as treacherous winter conditions, including high winds, continue.
“Strong winds (gusts up to 90 km/hr) and widespread blowing snow are expected to continue throughout the day,” said Visocchi. “Crews will be out treating the roads with a salt/sand mix to combat the ice buildup into tomorrow.”
Lisa Henrique, communications specialist with the County of Brant, said plows were back out at 5:30 am on Saturday after whiteout conditions temporarily suspended plowing efforts on some secondary roads on Friday evening.
Henrique said a decision was made to take the plows off the roads “out of concern for the safety of our operators.”
“Operator shifts have been staggered and additional staff called in to ensure the plowing operation can continue 24 hours a day until road conditions are restored.”
She said the county has received several calls about downed trees, downed power and communication lines and broken hydro polls, all related to high wind gusts.
A notice posted by Brant County on Saturday morning said they were aware of “multiple prolonged power outages.”
“If you are without power and experiencing difficulties, and if it’s safe to do so, consider staying with family and friends or at a local motel, or visit a public place like a mall or restaurant to warm up and ensure you have adequate supplies. ”
Environment Canada issued a weather advisory and winter weather travel advisory for Brantford and the County of Brant on Saturday morning.
Hazards include strong wind gusts up to 80 km-hr, sudden reduction of visibility due to flurries and blowing snow, extreme cold wind chills near -30C, local to scattered blowing snow, and accumulation of snow due to blowing snow on roads, especially over exposed areas.
Visocchi said roads are cleared in order consistent with the city’s winter control plan. High traffic areas and roads used to get to hospitals, schools and travel in and out of the city are cleared first.
Among the routes with highest priority are Wayne Gretzky Parkway, Veterans Memorial Parkway, Mount Pleasant Road, Powerline Road, Brant Avenue and King George Road.