As major storm winter approaches, Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the London area. Geff Coulson, a meteorologist with Environment Canada provides an overview of what is expected of the conditions. “This is a pretty large-scale weather system, the main impact that we are expecting in London area is snowfall amounts.” He explained that snow is expected to begin late Wednesday afternoon, continuing through the overnight hours, and Thursday morning, with accumulations likely between 15 to 20 centimeters.
Coulson also mentioned the possibility of mixed precipitation. “There will be some mixing in with ice pellets late Wednesday evening, and after midnight, and maybe even the risk of some freezing rain in some parts of the area.” he says.
Local snow removal services are preparing to ensure Londoners can navigate safely. Manager of London snow residential snowmobile, Patrick Hannebery says “there is an increase demand in residents calling for inquiries due to the upcoming snowfall.” “Typically, everybody pays up early in the year before the snow,” he explained. “But we have had, I would say, more than normal amount in this past week or so before the last little storm we got.”
Hannebery advises residents to stay indoor if possible. “If you don’t have a job or need to be somewhere, just stay in because it helps people like us, and more importantly, it helps the plow guys out on the road to get their job done quick.” he added.
Regarding driveway Maintenace, he suggests shoveling after the snowfall before applying salt. “If you put salt down before we get 20 centimeters, it’s only going to help burn off the first couple centimeters of fall. And still get 15 centimeters in your driveway in the morning,” he says. “I would say just get ready to shovel in the morning, and salt it after.”
Alexa Uche, a Londoner says, “it’s a mix of excitement and concern, I love the beauty of a snowy day, yet I am aware of the potential hazards.” “I’m urging people to be extra cautious.” she added.
Faizah Adichie, international student of Fanshawe College says “It’s my first winter here, this forecast is on another level.” I’m planning to stay indoors tonight and avoid the commute until it passes.”
