60Cm Snowstorm covers Timmins, ON, CA
Title: “Historic 60cm Snowstorm Blankets Timmins, Ontario: Emergency Declared, Travel Warnings Issued”
Meta Description: A record-breaking 60cm snowstorm has buried Timmins, ON, prompting an emergency declaration. Get updates on road closures, safety tips, and impacts on the community.
Unprecedented Snowfall Paralyzes Timmins
A massive winter storm has unleashed 60 centimeters (24 inches) of snow on Timmins, Ontario, turning the Northern Ontario city into a winter warzone overnight. Environment Canada issued extreme weather alerts as heavy, persistent snowfall combined with gusty winds caused near-zero visibility, making roads treacherous and forcing closures of schools, businesses, and major highways like Highway 101 and 655.
The storm, which began late Monday, intensified rapidly, exceeding initial forecasts and triggering a local state of emergency. Mayor Michelle Boileau urged residents to stay indoors unless travel was absolutely necessary, emphasizing, “This is a historic weather event. Emergency crews are working around the clock, but conditions remain extremely dangerous.”
Key Impacts of the Timmins Snowstorm
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Transportation Chaos
- Road Closures: Most local roads are impassable, with snowplows struggling to keep up. OPP reported over 50 stranded vehicles by Tuesday morning.
- Air Travel Disruptions: Timmins Victor M. Power Airport canceled all flights, with no immediate timeline for resumption.
- Public Transit: Timmins Transit suspended services indefinitely.
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Emergency Response in Overdrive
Firefighters, paramedics, and police are prioritizing life-threatening calls. Residents are advised to avoid dialing 911 unless facing emergencies to avoid overwhelming systems. -
Power Outages
Hydro One crews are battling to restore electricity to 3,000+ households after heavy snow brought down power lines.
Resident Safety: What You Need to Know
- Stay Indoors: Avoid non-essential travel until roads are cleared.
- Emergency Kits: Ensure you have 72 hours’ worth of food, water, medication, and heat sources (e.g., generators).
- Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Seniors or those with mobility issues may need assistance.
- Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Keep vents clear if using backup heaters or generators.
Schools, Businesses Forced to Close Indefinitely
All schools within the District School Board Ontario North East (DSB1) and Conseil scolaire catholique de district des Grandes Rivières remain shut. Non-essential businesses, including retail stores and government offices, halted operations Wednesday. Essential services like grocery stores opened with limited hours amid supply-chain delays.
How This Storm Compares to Timmins’ Snow History
Timmins averages ~260 cm of snow annually, but this single storm dumped ~25% of a typical winter’s snowfall in under 48 hours. Only the 2007 blizzard (58 cm) rivals this event in recent history. Climate scientists warn such extreme weather may become more frequent due to changing jet stream patterns.
What’s Next? Weather Forecast and Recovery Timeline
Environment Canada predicts light flurries and frigid -25°C wind chills through the week, hampering cleanup efforts. Officials estimate full road clearance could take 3–5 days. Residents should monitor:
- City of Timmins Emergency Alerts
- @TimminsOPP on X
- Environment Canada Weather Warnings
Conclusion: A Community Bands Together
While the 60cm snowstorm has tested Timmins’ resilience, local volunteers and emergency crews are showcasing Northern Ontario’s trademark grit. Donations to the Timmins Food Bank and offers to shovel driveways flooded social media, proving the city’s spirit remains unbroken beneath the snow.
Stay safe, stay informed, and avoid unnecessary risks until the all-clear is given.
FAQ: Timmins Snowstorm
Q: Is Timmins still under a snowstorm warning?
A: As of [current date], yes. Environment Canada maintains a winter storm warning with additional lake-effect snow possible.
Q: How much snow fell in Timmins?
A: Approximately 60 cm (24 inches), primarily between Monday night and Wednesday morning.
Q: Are highways to Timmins open?
A: Highway 101/655 has limited access. Check Ontario 511 for real-time updates.
Q: Where can I report a power outage?
A: Contact Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235 or via their outage map.
For urgent assistance, dial 211 for Ontario’s community and social services helpline.
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