Posted:
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015 (Halifax, NS) – The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents that snow clearing operations on streets and sidewalks continue today following a significant winter storm in our region that began on Monday afternoon and continued overnight into Tuesday morning.
Municipal and contracted crews have been working 24 hours a day since the storm began, to clear and treat roads and sidewalks throughout the municipality despite very challenging conditions. Fluctuating temperatures and a mix of snow, ice pellets and freezing rain have created snow and ice pack on many roads and sidewalks throughout the municipality. Salt, liquid brine, and sand are being used where possible to create traction for vehicles and pedestrians, and assist with snow melt. Salt is only effective in melting snow and ice when temperatures are above -10 degrees Celsius.
Over 100 plows/salt trucks and 120 sidewalk clearing units remain at work today clearing sidewalks and bus stops, and treating and widening roads throughout the region. Approximately 75 per cent of roads are cleared curb to curb, and 50 per cent of sidewalks are complete at this time. Extra equipment has been activated to assist with snow removal from sidewalks and bus stops in the downtown core where space is limited. It is important to note that given the varying conditions created by the storm, snow clearing standards may not be met in all areas. For more information on service standards visit www.halifax.ca/municipalops/Winter/SnowServiceStandards.php.
Forecasts for the next 36 hours show another weather system moving into our region, with a mix of precipitation expected. Crews continue to work hard to clear and treat roads and sidewalks in advance of this system, and ask for residents to exercise patience as we deal with variable weather conditions, which , of course are beyond our control.
We remind residents to adjust driving habits in recognition of slippery road conditions, and be cautious when approaching and navigating intersections as snow banks may impede visibility. Crews will be working today and tonight to cut down and remove snow banks from intersections and at bus stops along priority routes.
A reminder for children to avoid playing in snow banks alongside roads, in cul-de-sacs or parking lots as they may not be visible to the snow plow driver, and clearing operations continue at this time.
The municipality has lifted enforcement of the overnight winter parking ban until further notice as snow clearing operations this evening will focus on sidewalks, bus stops and intersections. Residents should monitor local weather forecasts, and can stay informed on the status of the parking ban online at www.halifax.ca/snow or sign up for alerts to your phone or email. Sign up online, email contactus@311.halifax.ca or call 311.
For the most up to date information on snow clearing operations follow @hfxgov on Twitter or visit www.halifax.ca/snow.
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