Timmins declares Significant Weather Event starting 6 p.m. April 2 as winter storm warning forecasts snow, ice pellets and freezing rain

The City of Timmins Public Works Department declared a Significant Weather Event effective 6 p.m. Thursday, April 2, under Ontario Regulation 239/02 as a winter storm warning forecasts 10 to 25 centimetres of snow and ice pellets, along with 3 to 5 millimetres of ice buildup from freezing rain.

The declaration comes as the city warns residents to expect hazardous conditions that could affect travel and local services, including possible road closures, sharply reduced visibility and potential utility outages.

A winter storm warning was in effect in Timmins as of Thursday. Snow was forecast to begin Thursday afternoon and continue through Friday afternoon, with peak snowfall rates of 2 to 3 centimetres per hour.

The forecast also called for reduced visibility in heavy snow and local blowing snow, with visibility expected to drop to near zero at times.

Freezing rain was also in the forecast, with ice buildup of 3 to 5 millimetres expected.

The city said roads and walkways were likely to be difficult to navigate, and that road closures were possible. Local utility outages were also considered likely.

Timmins Transit was not scheduled to run on Good Friday. Severe weather could affect transit operations tonight and Saturday, with potential service delays or cancellations.

Updates were expected to be posted on the city’s website and social media channels.

The city also noted that its winter parking ban remains in effect. Parking on city streets is prohibited daily between 11:30 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. from Nov. 1 to Apr. 30, unless otherwise posted.

Bylaw 1993-4162 prohibits placing snow from private property onto city roads or sidewalks.

The city said it plans to issue a follow-up notice when the Significant Weather Event ends, once conditions permit.