Is winter weather significant, severe, or just snow? Here’s the difference.
Winter weather in Waterloo Region can change fast. When bad weather arrives, the Region of Waterloo, local cities and townships have ways to keep our roads safe, keep transit running smoothly and get you where you need to go.
So what’s the difference between a “Significant Weather Event,” a “Snow Event” or a “Transit Severe Weather Event?” We know it’s a little confusing. But each has its own purpose and triggers. Learn the difference so you’re ready for the next snowstorm:
Significant Weather Event
Who declares this?
- The Region of Waterloo or any of the cities
What triggers it?
- 20 centimetres of snow within 24 hours
- Ice accumulation of 20 milimetres from freezing rain that lasts longer than 12 hours
- Sustained high winds greater than 60 km/h
What does it mean?
- The Region will declare a Significant Weather Event to alert residents there is an increased risk driving on roads and using bike lanes, and that it will take longer than usual to clear them
- Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads. Limit travel to only essential trips outside of their homes to allow snow plow crews to clear roadways
How will I know?
- The Region will put information on its website and social media accounts. There will be a message added to the Region’s Service First Contact Centre phone line, 519-575-4400
- Local news media may share the announcement
Transit Severe Weather Event
Who declares this?
- Grand River Transit
What triggers it?
- Heavy snowfall
- Freezing rain
What does it mean?
- Some bus routes will be detoured and some bus stops temporarily closed
- Stops that will be closed during severe weather have a special blue sign below the stop marker
- GRT’s Transit Severe Weather Plan is new this year to help keep buses running smoothly by having them avoid slippery or unsafe spots where vehicles could get stuck
- Get all the details here, including which stops are impacted
How will I know?
- Transit severe weather events will be posted at grt.ca/alerts and the @alertsGRT Twitter
Snow Event
Who declares this?
- Cities of Cambridge, Waterloo or Kitchener
What triggers it?
- Snowfall of 8 centimeters or more
What does it mean?
- Parking on any street is prohibited until the snow event has ended
- This allows operators to quickly and safely clear snow
- The three cities have their own information about parking rules and fines: Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge
How will I know?
- Cities’ websites and social media accounts
- Local news media may share the announcement