The calendar says November, but the snowflakes have already started to fly.
Windsor-Essex got its first taste of snowfall Wednesday into Thursday, leaving a dusting in many places. Areas east of the city have significant snowfall in the forecast. With that in mind, the city of Windsor is reminding residents about its procedures and expectations for snow removal.
According to the city, three salt trucks were mobilized overnight, concentrating on potentially icy sections of the E.C. Row Expressway such as overpasses and ramps.
With a chance of snowfall almost every day through Tuesday, the city said plows will go out once the snow begins falling and accumulates at least five centimetres. Depending on weather and traffic conditions, a plow takes between three to six hours to complete its assigned route. Plows will concentrate on main arteries first and add residential areas once main roads are clear and at least ten centimetres of snow has fallen.
The city said plows travel at about 40 kilometres per hour and so they are urging drivers to be patient if travelling behind one, giving the driver more than enough room to work safely. Crowding a plow can affect visibility and increase the chance of your vehicle being damaged by flying rocks, snow, and debris.
Despite sidewalks being city property, residents are still responsible for making sure they are cleared within a reasonable amount of time. Do not shovel snow back onto the street, which is a violation of both the city of Windsor's bylaws and the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. Snow should be cleared within four hours in a commercial area and 12 hours in residential areas.
Complete information on the city's snow removal policies can be found at the City of Windsor's official website or by calling 311.