Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016 (Halifax, NS) – The Halifax region is expecting a mix of snow and rain over the next 24 hours with temperatures hovering below freezing. Residents are encouraged to adjust their travel accordingly and ensure they’re prepared for challenges associated with bad weather.
With up to 20 centimetres of snow expected, crews are out today salting all areas and pre-treating the main arterial routes with brine. Current forecasts say there is potential for the snow to change to rain just prior to the morning commute on Wednesday.
Any change in the track of this weather system will have an impact on the type and amount of precipitation the Halifax region may receive. The Winter Operations team is monitoring the latest forecasts and will dispatch crews accordingly overnight and tomorrow.
Due to the timing of this weather event, residents should expect slippery, snow-covered routes early Wednesday and changing weather conditions throughout the morning. For those who need to travel, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
Adjust your speed to the conditions. Wet roads can freeze even if the air temperature is above zero. Follow at a safe distance. It can take up to 12 times further to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. Leave extra time to reach your destination or consider delaying travel until later in the day, if possible. Keep your vehicle in top working order and carry a winter survival kit with you when you travel.
This weather event will affect some municipal services. Garbage, recyclables and organics collection is cancelled for Wednesday. Residents who normally have collection that day should place their waste at the curb before 7 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16.
Residents are also encouraged to phone ahead on Wednesday morning to see if recreation programs or facilities are cancelled or delaying opening.
Halifax Transit staff will be assessing the weather and road conditions. Updates on individual bus routes will be available by following @hfxtransit on Twitter, which is also streamed online at www.halifax.ca/snow.
Source: Release