Winter Operations 101: Significant Weather Events

Feb. 1, 2022 11:50 a.m.
​What you need to know about an event once it’s declared


With snow in the forecast, the City of Vaughan’s winter crews are on the job – no matter the size or scale! Learn everything you need to know about the City’s winter operations during declared Significant Weather Events.

What is a Significant Weather Event?

A Significant Weather Event is defined as an approaching or occurring weather hazard with the potential to pose a significant danger to users of roads within a municipality. Examples of severe weather that could trigger a Significant Weather Event include freezing rain, significant snowfall, blowing snow and reduced visibility.

When does the City declare a Significant Weather Event?

The Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways allows municipalities to declare a Significant Weather Event when Environment Canada issues a weather alert and when the weather conditions have the potential to pose a significant danger to users of the highways which they have authority over.

How do I know if the City has declared a Significant Weather Event?

Significant Weather Events will be publicly declared on the City’s website and social media channels and will remain in place until the City deems them complete. Updates will be shared to signal the end of a Significant Weather Event.

How does a Significant Weather Event impact City service levels?

When the City declares a Significant Weather Event, winter maintenance service levels may be impacted. Although service level standards do not change, winter clearing activities may take longer to complete. During the event, staff monitor weather forecasts and make the necessary decisions and adjustments to operations. If involving snow or ice accumulation, standard service levels may be impacted as crews work to clear roads and sidewalks.

Stay informed!

For more information on the City’s winter maintenance service levels, visit vaughan.ca/snow. For additional details and to receive the latest information on Vaughan’s winter operations:

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