West Lincoln Declares Significant Weather Event December 23

Public Notice: West Lincoln Declares Significant Weather Event

The Township of West Lincoln has declared a significant weather event on December 23, for ice and snow accumulation on roadways and sidewalks, high winds and blowing snow.

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the Northern Niagara Region. A major winter storm is expected today and into Saturday. Travel will become hazardous and is not advised. Flash freezing is expected to produce icy and slippery surfaces. Wind gusts of 100 to 110 km/h may result in widespread blowing snow, which will reduce visibility to near zero at times. Utility outages are possible. Snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm are expected by Saturday morning, with wind chill values into the minus twenties.

*Update: At 4:09 p.m. on December 23, Environment Canada issued a Blizzard Warning for the Northern Niagara Region. Blizzard conditions are expected through the night. Travel will be extremely difficult and is NOT advised. Blizzard conditions with wind gusts of 100 to 110 km/h. Utility outages are possible. Snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 cm by Saturday morning, with wind chill values into the minus twenties.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.

As per Regulation 239/02 of the Municipal Act 2001, the Township of West Lincoln is declaring a significant weather event impacting all roads within the West Lincoln boundaries, due to the current Environment Canada Blizzard Warning.

This declaration of a significant weather event is to notify the public that due to the current or forecasted conditions, caution is to be observed when travelling on roads maintained by the Township. It may take longer than usual to bring the roads and sidewalks back to optimal conditions.

Parking is prohibited on Municipal Roadways at any time during a snow event or winter weather advisory. Please keep cars parked in driveways, so as not to impede snow plowing operations.

Residents are encouraged to stay safe at home if possible. If you must travel, please remember:

• It's Not a Race, Give Plows Space. Plows are extra wide and throw snow and spray, making it difficult to see if the road ahead is clear for passing. If you must drive, the safest place is well behind the plow. Wait for plows to pull over before passing. But don’t accelerate too quickly – the road ahead is unplowed and could be slick or snowy.
• Be Nice Driving on Ice. Stopping distance on ice is double that of a dry road. Leave extra space when driving in icy conditions. Approach intersections slowly when they are covered with ice or snow. Use extra caution on bridges and ramps. Ice can form without warning, even if roadways are dry. Watch out for black ice – a thin, nearly invisible coat of ice that can make the road look like shiny new asphalt. Pavement will look grey or white in the winter.
• Drive Slow in the Snow. Drive according to weather conditions, not the speed limit. Adjust your speed accordingly and give yourself extra travel time. During a storm, posted speed limits are usually too fast. Conditions can also be unpredictable and change rapidly. Avoid sudden moves, starts or stops. Start slowly on slick or snowy roads and brake gradually, giving yourself plenty of space. Steer gently into turns to maintain control. Be visible. Use your low-beam headlights when it is snowing. They are brighter than daytime running lights and will turn on your tail lights.