Wellington County declares 'significant weather event'
WELLINGTON COUNTY – The County of Wellington has declared a “significant weather event” due to the considerable snowfall and current blowing snow.
A major winter storm warning has been issued by Environment Canada and the storm is expected continue through the weekend, bringing, in some areas, snowfalls anywhere from 15 to 50cm by Sunday.
The storm is also expected to include winds up to 100km/h at times, creating widespread blowing snow and hazardous driving conditions.
[related]
Travel is not recommended, states a Dec. 23 press release issued at 10am by county engineer Don Kudo.
“If you do travel, do so at your own risk and exercise extreme caution,” the release states.
The county plans to deploy snow removal resources “when it is deemed practical and safe to do so,” the release states.
A municipality can declare a significant weather event when a weather hazard is approaching or occurring and has the potential to pose a significant danger to users of roads.
This declaration allows county operations additional time to address the significant weather event and remain in compliance with the province’s Minimum Maintenance Standards regulation.
“County staff are closely monitoring the weather and will provide updates on Facebook, Twitter, and our website,” the release states.
Several lower tier municipalities have also declared a significant weather event, including Puslinch and Minto.
Many facilities remain closed across the county.
In Centre Wellington, for example, the township has closed all municipal facilities except the sportsplex in Fergus and community centre in Elora.
Residents should follow their municipality's website and social media accounts for the latest updates.
*The significant weather event was rescinded on the morning of Dec. 26.
