Expect heavy snow, changing road conditions in Waterloo region and area, winter travel advisory warns
Overnight snow also led to school bus cancellations in parts of Waterloo region, Wellington County
Up to 10 cm of snow is possible late Tuesday into Wednesday and driving conditions could change quickly as an Alberta clipper moves through Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County.
Environment Canada issued a winter weather travel advisory Tuesday afternoon.
"Snow will quickly move into the area from the northwest this afternoon then continue tonight as an Alberta clipper low moves through. Snow will taper to flurries by Wednesday morning," the weather advisory says.
"Motorists should expect hazardous winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans accordingly. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow."
It comes after about two centimetres of snow fell over Waterloo region and the Guelph area Monday night into Tuesday morning.
A snow event has been declared in Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge, meaning all residents will need to move their vehicles off city streets starting at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday to allow crews to clear snow.
The City of Waterloo says vehicles could be ticketed or towed if they are not removed. The parking ban on city streets remains in effect for 24 hours unless the city lifts it early.
"Snow events are declared when the city anticipates a significant amount of snow to accumulate," the city's release said.
The city also reminded residents to clear snow and ice from sidewalks at the front and side of homes and businesses. In Waterloo, this must be done within 24 hours after the end of a snow fall. In Cambridge, people have 36 hours.
"Although it's the law, it's also the neighbourly thing to do. Snow or ice-covered sidewalks can be treacherous for all residents, especially those who already have mobility restrictions," the City of Waterloo release said.
The Township of Woolwich also declared a significant weather event on Monday due to blowing snow, leading to drifts over some roadways.
The township advised Monday "caution is to be observed when travelling on township roads and that it may take longer than usual to bring the condition of the roads back to a state of repair."
School buses were also cancelled for public and Catholic school students in several areas Tuesday morning because of snowy weather.
On Tuesday morning, buses were cancelled in:
- Wellesley.
- Wilmot.
- Woolwich.
- North Dumfries.
- North Wellington County.
- Dufferin County.
Cancellations will also affect all taxis and special education routes in those areas. All schools remained open despite the bus cancellations.
Buses were operating in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo as well as in Guelph, Centre Wellington and Rockwood.
Students and families are reminded to check transportation services for their area on Wednesday morning to see if buses are running.