Old man winter is back wreaking havoc in Northumberland and beyond with poor driving conditions being reported throughout the county.
There have been several reports of cars in ditches but at press deadline, there was no confirmation of any major incidents.
The dumping of snow – with up to 25 centimetres forecasted to hit the region before the storm passes – along with ice and poor visibility are impacting area roads, including along Hwy. 401.
At press deadline, there was at least one vehicle in the ditch on the right shoulder near the Port Hope ONroute. Traffic wasn’t being impacted, and a tow was on the way.
There were also reports of a multi-vehicle crash causing congestion just east of Trenton on highway earlier this morning, but no confirmation around potential injuries.
Meanwhile, OPP East Region said since about 5 a.m. that officers have responded to more than 30 collisions. Most have resulted in no or minor injuries, and in many cases, drivers are losing control of cars and trucks and landing in the ditch, noted police.
As reported earlier this morning, the storm and forecast have also prompted bus cancellations across the region.
Environment Canada is predicting significant snowfall to continue throughout the day, with snow to taper off this evening. Heavy snow will contribute to reduced visibility at times, along with blowing snow – and there have been whiteout conditions on and off already today and a lot of drifting snow leading to build-up on roads.
Environment Canada officials said people should prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.
First-responders in Northumberland are also urging residents to avoid non-essential travel where possible. If people have to travel, OPP recommends checking road conditions and local forecasts first and prioritizing safety.
Motorists should have a full tank of gas, a charged phone, and emergency kits in vehicles – and ensure all snow and ice are cleared from vehicles. Turn on your lights for visibility, slow down and leave extra space and drive to the conditions, added police.
Residents are also reminded to never pass working snowplows.
“They’re working to make the roads safer for you,” stressed police.
Brighton fire is also reminding people to keep natural gas exhausts and meters clear of snow, as well as hydrants.
Several transit providers are also being impacted by the storm. In the Municipality of Port Hope, just after 9 a.m., officials said transit services were no longer running due to the weather and road conditions and said the situation would be reassessed this afternoon.
Port Hope has also since declared a significant weather event.
Quinte Transit has also confirmed that Route C isn’t running today, and while routes A and B are, buses will not be going down unplowed streets. As a result, people are asked to make their way to the nearest main road bus stop.
In the Presqu’ile area, the Loop Road has closed.
Several closures and cancellations have also been reported throughout the Northumberland and Quinte areas. To name just a few, the Care and Share Food Bank in Trenton has closed due to the storm, and tonight’s scheduled 6 to 8 p.m. service has been moved to next Thursday, Jan. 22.
Community Living and Respite Northumberland also said all its locations and services are closed and/or cancelled this morning due to the weather.
Conditions will be monitored, and the team will reassess at noon and share an update for afternoon services following that assessment, said staff.
Several thrift stores have also shuttered their doors for the day, as well as the Bewdley library branch.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
