Area police departments are urging drivers to stay off the roads as the region is pummelled with snow.
In separate social-media posts Sunday morning (Feb. 16), both South Simcoe Police Service and the Nottawasaga OPP detachment noted poor driving conditions within their jurisdictions.
South Simcoe says emergency services are “stretched, responding to multiple collisions along with other calls for service.”
“A significant snowstorm is currently impacting both Innisfil and Bradford,” South Simcoe said in its post. “(Municipal) crews are working hard to manage the conditions, but heavy snow and reduced visibility make driving extremely challenging. Non-essential travel should be avoided. Your cooperation is crucial for everyone's safety.
“Stay safe and stay home if possible.”
Nottawasaga says officers have noticed “extremely poor weather conditions today.”
“We strongly advise all (travellers) to stay home unless absolutely necessary," OPP said in its post. "Roads are hazardous with reduced visibility, and icy patches (are) making travel dangerous. If you must go out, check road and weather updates before leaving (and) drive cautiously and allow for extra time. Your safety comes first.”
Area municipalities, including Newmarket, Aurora and Georgina have declared significant weather events due to the heavy snowfall.
If you typically leave your vehicle on the street, find an alternative safe place to park, as this will assist crews in clearing roads efficiently and effectively, South Simcoe said.
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the area, with additional snowfall accumulations of five to 10 centimetres anticipated this afternoon.
Peak snowfall rates will be two to three centimetres per hour, and there will be significantly reduced visibility in heavy and blowing snow.
The storm is expected to end this evening.
“Highly impactful winter storm continuing this afternoon,” the weather agency said in a statement on its website Sunday afternoon. “Conditions will improve gradually. Travel will be hazardous and is not recommended. Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.”
Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get a kit for their vehicle with drinking water, food, medicine, first-aid supplies and a flashlight, Environment Canada added.
For information on emergency plans and kits, visit getprepared.gc.ca.
The Barrie area is currently in the midst of receiving a significant snowfall with the threat of additional accumulation from snow squalls that are in the forecast overnight and into tomorrow. #BarriePolice is suggesting that any non-essential travel be reconsidered at this time. pic.twitter.com/qqS1oMKwx8
— Barrie Police (@BarriePolice) February 16, 2025