OTTAWA – City of Ottawa staff are mobilizing as we type preparing to give the expected winter snowstorm, a salty greeting.

“City road crews are preparing to plow and salt roads and sidewalks in anticipation of a heavy snowfall forecast for Ottawa,” city staff released in a statement today (Feb. 25). “Residents are asked to exercise caution if driving, cycling or walking and to allow extra time for their commutes.”

Residents are also reminded to be patient and keep a safe distance behind working snowplows and sidewalk equipment.

“Drivers are also asked to avoid parking on the street, if possible, so that plows can remove snow from streets more efficiently,” staff said. “The city will inform residents if a parking ban is placed into effect. Residents can also sign up for an e-alert.”

If you are using OC Transpo, please leave extra time for your trip and anticipate there may be weather or traffic related delays. In the event of delays or cancellations, OC Transpo will communicate via octranspo.com, Twitter (@OC_Transpo and @OCTranspoLive), subscription-based alert notifications (SMS and email), the OC Transpo iPhone app and on transit screens at stations.

Service requests

The number one priority for City road crews during the storm is to keep Highway 174, major and arterial roads clear. Residential roads will be cleared as soon as possible; however, due to the volume of snow expected, road crews will not be able to clear residential roads as quickly. Residents are asked to please avoid contacting the City about their neighbourhood roads unless it is an emergency.

Residents are asked to clear snow away from fire hydrants connected to their own properties, if they can do so. Please check on your neighbours who are elderly or may have difficulties with mobility.

Cancellations and closures

Please visit Ottawa.ca for the complete list of city programs affected. Please check this page regularly as information could change.

For updates on the city’s winter road maintenance during the storm, visit ottawa.ca. You can also connect with us through Facebook and Twitter.

For weather updates, please visit Environment Canada.