Significant Weather Event Declared

Due to forecasted conditions associated with the incoming weather system and the expected impact on the city’s road and sidewalk infrastructure, the City of Owen Sound has declared a Significant Weather Event that will remain in effect until further notice.

The declaration of a significant weather event is not a notice of a reduced level of service or a road closure. It is to notify the public that caution is to be observed when travelling on roads maintained by the City. It may take longer than usual to bring the roads back to optimal conditions.

Only essential travel is advised. Travel on municipal roads and sidewalks maintained by the City of Owen Sound requires extra caution during a declared Significant Weather Event. All municipal streets and sidewalks are in a “state of repair” until an end to the significant weather event is announced. 

Please use caution and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination.  Be cautious of unseen ice, wind gusts and potential drifting snow or low visibility conditions.

Never drive on a road that has been “closed” by the local authorities due to weather, in the City, or anywhere else.  Additionally, for the safety of everyone, please do not push snow from driveways onto the road when clearing a laneway.

For further information on current and forecasted weather conditions, please visit Environment Canada, the Weather Network or if you require community and social services assistance call 211.

For more information, please contact Lara Widdifield at 519-376-4440 Ext 1201 or email lwiddifield@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

• The declaration of a significant weather event is not a notice of a reduced level of service or a road closure.
• Public Works staff work 24/7 on three shifts throughout winter control to ensure public safety.
• Average annual snowfall in Owen Sound is 330.4 cm (130.1 inches); the most in Ontario.
• Visit the City’s website for further information at OwenSound.ca/WinterControl.

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