London is expected to experience the first significant winter storm of the season, a mix of snow, blowing snow, rain and ice, beginning today and into Thursday morning. The City of London is asking residents to be vigilant and take steps to prepare ahead of the weather conditions worsening.
Salting and sanding roads and sidewalks
City crews are out applying sand and salt to main roads and bus routes. The City is monitoring road conditions and will update the london.ca/snow webpage throughout the storm.
Give yourself extra time to get to where you need to be
Highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy, slippery and hazardous. Londoners are reminded to slow down, be mindful of others, give yourself a little extra time when travelling, and check ahead of time to make sure your destination is open and accessible.
Stay clear and off all bodies of water
The Upper Thames River Conversation Authority is reminding Londoners to take caution around watercourses. Banks next to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Any ice cover that may be present is weak and unstable. Children and pets should be kept away from waterways and flooded areas.
Prepare for possible basement and yard flooding
With the forecast of expected rain and snow over the next few days, flooding may occur in parts of the city. The City of London is reminding residents to take steps in advance to prepare and protect against basement and yard flooding.
- If you have a backwater valve and/or sump pump, ensure they are in good working order and are operational during this time
- Keep your drains unobstructed – do not pour grease down the drain or flush objects down the toilet
- Throughout the year take a look around your property to make sure the ground is sloping away from your house and downspouts are extended four to six feet away from the house. Direct your downspouts where water can be easily absorbed, such as your lawn or flower bed.
- Inspect your basement walls and floor for cracks.
Additional flooding resources are available on the City’s website.
Winterize your emergency kits
Make preparations to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours. Store the items in backpacks, duffel bags or luggage so you can easily take the kit with you in case you need to evacuate. Ensure that every household member knows where the emergency kit is located.
If you already keep an emergency kit in your car be sure to winterize it by adding a few items that will be useful for any roadside emergencies that might happen over the winter. Items like a shovel or sand can help you get back on the road, while blankets/sleeping bag, spare gloves, hat, winter socks, and boots, as well as snacks for energy and water will be important should you become stuck for a long period of time in the cold. Check that all the items in your kit are in working order and replace things like food, water and batteries. If you don’t already have an emergency kit ready, consider preparing a kit that will help you get through the first 72 hours of an emergency. While the goal is that you wouldn’t ever need to use these items Canadian winters can be difficult and unpredictable so preparation is important.
Stay informed
Whether you’re looking for snow clearing updates, confirming the status of on-street parking, or checking for updated hours of operation for community centres and recreation programs, visit https://london.ca/snow for the information you need.
The City of London will continue to post up to date information on the City’s social media accounts.
- Follow the City on X (Twitter) at @CityOfLdnOnt
- Like the City of London, Ontario on Facebook
- Follow the City on Instagram at @CityofLondonOnt
In the event of an emergency, Alert London will provide critical public safety messages. The system is designed to reach you at your preferred point of contact (text or voice). Please provide your name, address, phone number and preferred method of contact (text or email). Sign up for our Alert London Notification System.
Recreation Facilities and Programs
City of London recreation facilities remain open and Londoners are always welcome to come in to get out of the elements. Londoners are encouraged to visit our closures and cancellations webpage for updates related to recreation facility closures and program cancellations. To check the status of the outdoor skating rink at Victoria Park, Londoners can call 519-661-5768.