City Prepares for Snow Forecasted to Begin March 7, 2024

The City is preparing for a winter storm which is expected to bring significant snowfall starting Thursday evening.

City crews work around the clock on roads and designated sidewalks during and after a snowstorm. You can help our crews do their job safely and effectively by doing your part:

• keep your distance when you see plows or other City vehicles on the roadway
• park off the street when possible
• DO NOT place snow onto a road or sidewalk when shoveling. This reduces our efficiency throughout the city and delays service to other areas. It also creates a hazard for pedestrians and motorists.
• Consider postponing non-essential travel during stormy conditions with low visibility. If you need to travel, please allow extra time for the commute, slow down, and prepare for winter driving conditions.

Your cooperation will allow crews to maneuver equipment and clear snow as efficiently as possible.

If you do have any concerns or issues as a result of the storm, Access St. John’s is available 24/7 via phone 754-CITY, 311, email access@stjohns.ca or via the app in your app store. However, we ask that you wait until after the weather event where possible to reach out regarding snow clearing inquiries. Our crews will not be able to investigate individual issues until at least 24 hours after the end of the weather event.

Service levels

For snowfalls of up to 25 centimeters, streets will be cleared within 24 hours following the storm. As this storm is expected to well exceed 25 cms, crews may require more time to clear streets.

We know sidewalks are important for pedestrian travel. It is important to understand that we have 175 km of sidewalks prioritized for snow clearing and ice control, with routes and priorities outlined on this map. Depending on the amount and type of snow on the ground, most streets in the sidewalk program will be cleared within five days from the end of a winter event. However, exceptional amounts of snowfall like what is forecasted may impact how quickly crews can get all sidewalks cleared.

Learn more about our snow clearing service levels.

24-Hour Parking Ban

During a winter storm, the City may announce a 24-Hour Parking Ban to keep roads free of parked vehicles so that crews can quickly and safely clear snow. The 24-Hour Parking Ban will be enforced for the upcoming storm beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, March 8, and is expected to be in effect for multiple days.

When the 24-hour parking ban is in effect, you cannot park on the street outside the designated downtown area until the ban is lifted. Depending on the level of snow, this ban could be in place for an extended period of time. Vehicles parked on city streets outside downtown may be ticketed and/or towed.

We will publish an advisory when the ban is announced. You can receive emails stating when the parking ban will come into effect, and when it will be lifted, by subscribing to the '24 Hour Parking Ban' category, under the news section.

Private snow clearing operators

Private contractors clearing snow for businesses throughout the city are asked to stay within the boundaries of the area that they are clearing.

When private contractors place snow on public spaces such as sidewalks and city streets, this creates issues for everyone in the community. If you see a private operator placing snow in a public space such as a sidewalk or public road, please report the details to Access St. John’s so this can be investigated.

Access St. John’s is available 24/7 via phone 754-CITY, 311, email access@stjohns.ca or via the app in your app store.

Be Prepared

Residents should always prepare to be on their own for up to 72 hours during adverse weather events.

The following are some tips to help you prepare in advance:

• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and alerts from reliable news sources.
• Emergency Kit: Create an emergency kit to have on hand that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, important documents, and any special items for children or pets.
• Stay Charged: Keep your cell phones, portable chargers, and other electronic devices fully charged. Consider getting a solar charger or a hand-crank charger for emergencies.
• Backup Lighting/Power:  If you lose power, use flashlights rather than candles and have a good supply of batteries. If you use candles, don't leave them unattended. If you have a generator, fuel and test to ensure it is available if needed. Ensure an adequate supply of fuel is on hand.
• Home Essentials: Stock up on essential supplies like bottled water, food, blankets, and warm clothing. Ensure you have enough for each family member and pets for several days.

Learn more and stay informed

Track our snowplows and heavy equipment on this map.

To receive information and news directly from the City, sign up for emails.

Visit StJohns.ca/snow for further information about snow clearing in the City of St. John’s.