Based on information from Environment Canada, the City of Markham has issued a warning for a mix of snow, freezing rain, ice pellets and strong winds commencing the morning of Tuesday, February 12, which is expected to remain in effect until Wednesday, February 13 in the evening. The City of Markham encourages residents to avoid unnecessary travel. If you do have to travel anywhere, drive carefully and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.Snow fall is expected to begin early Tuesday morning and mix with ice pellets later in the day.

Snowfall amounts are expected to range from 15 to 20 cm for Markham and the surrounding areas. Blowing snow due to strong wind gusts may result in reduced visibility at times.

City of Markham staff continue to monitor the weather and road conditions 24/7. In anticipation of this weather event, Markham’s Operations Department is ready to respond and will mobilize as required to meet Council approved service levels. Normal plowing operations will take up to approximately 16 hours. For more information on Markham’s Winter Operations, visit markham.ca/winter.

Stay safe during winter weather:

  • Call or visit vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, especially isolated seniors and ensure they have proper supplies to stay warm and dry.
  • Winter driving has its own challenges. An emergency car kit can help. Important items to include are a cell phone charger, flashlight, blankets and sand bags, snacks, shovel, booster cables, and towing company numbers.
  • Track the progress of road and sidewalk plows in Markham by visiting our website.

Seek shelter or local warming centre:

  • Depending on the wind chill, exposed skin can freeze in minutes. Consider rescheduling or limiting time outdoors, especially if it is windy.
  • Under the Community Investment Strategy (CIS), York Region provides funding to Inn From the Cold Emergency Winter Shelter, and Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program.
  • During the coldest months of the year, both of these programs provide emergency overnight shelter, clothing and meals to adults 18 years of age and over.
  • For more information about Inn From The Cold, visit innfromthecold.ca or call 904-895-8889.
  • For more information about the Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program, call 416-948-6682 or toll free 1-877-338-3398.
  • York Region also funds the York Region Street Outreach Van, operated by Loft/Crosslinks. The van is a mobile service that travels throughout York Region, providing assistance to homeless and at-risk individuals. The van staff provides sleeping bags, warm clothes and referrals to shelter programs. The van operates seven days a week from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. To schedule a meeting place and time with the Street Outreach Van, individuals can call 1-866-553-4053.

Warming Centres Available at Markham Community Centres & Libraries:

For a complete list of facilities and hours of operation, visit Markham.ca

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit  markham.ca/AreYouPrepared