Declaration lifted for most District roads – Significant Weather Event remains in effect for the Township of Georgian Bay
After multiple days of treacherous winter weather and significant snow accumulation, the Significant Weather Event (SWE) declared by the District of Muskoka has been lifted for all District roads outside of the Township of Georgian Bay, as of December 31, 2022 at 12:00 p.m.
The SWE has been lifted for all District roads with the exception of roads in the Township of Georgian Bay. The SWE remains in effect for only the Township of Georgian Bay until further notice. Efforts continue to battle road conditions – crews are working to widen roads and ensure safe two-way passage. To see which District roads the SWE still applies to within the Township click here.
What’s Happening
Crews from the District and partner municipalities continue to work 24/7 to recover from the snowstorm. Although the Significant Weather Event has been lifted in most areas, efforts continue to ensure roadways and sidewalks are safe for motorists and pedestrians. Snow removal activities will take place in communities across Muskoka to improve visibility at intersections – the district asks for your patience while this work is completed, as single lanes may be restricted at times to ensure the area is safe for crews.
Flooding and Icy Roads – Warm Weather Risks
The holiday snowstorm brought significant snowfall and a heavy snowpack to Muskoka. When warmer weather is experienced quickly, it increases the risk of flooding and icy road conditions. When removing snow, residents are reminded to keep catchbasins and drainage culverts clear. Blocked catchbasins and culverts can cause localized flooding and create hazards, especially when temperatures drop overnight.
Winter is Here: Proceed with Caution
Winter driving can be challenging, especially when the roads are covered in snow or ice. Here are some tips for driving safely in these conditions:
- Slow down: Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react to any hazards or slippery spots on the road.
- Use your brakes carefully: Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can cause your car to skid. Instead, pump the brakes gently to slow down.
- Stay alert: Keep an eye out for black ice, a thin layer of ice that can be difficult to see on the road – and usually looks just like bare pavement. Be careful when driving over bridges and overpasses, as these areas tend to freeze first.
- Keep a safe following distance. In the winter, leave plenty of space between you and the cars around you.
- Keep your headlights on: Make sure your headlights are turned on so that other drivers can see you.
- Pay attention to snow-packed and sanded roads; these will be especially susceptible to becoming icy.
- Be reminded that bridges, overpasses and shaded areas can ice quickly.
- Monitor the forecast – prepare for a temperature drop and a risk of flooding. These conditions can also cause potholes to form quickly – drive slowly and keep an eye on the conditions.
The Significant Weather Event for the District of Muskoka was declared on December 23, 2022. As of 12:00 p.m. on December 31, 2022, the Significant Weather Event is lifted for all District roads outside of the Township of Georgian Bay – the declaration has been extended for the Township of Georgian Bay until further notice.