Winter is set to return to the North Okanagan this week.
Environment Canada is forecasting below freezing temperatures over the next several days, leading to the possibility of snow for end of the week.
Lows of -4 degrees Celsius are forecast for tonight and Thursday and reaching -6 Friday night. Snow could fall Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
With this, residents are reminded to adjust habits to meet winter conditions.
The City of Vernon asks motorists to slow down, give yourself additional time to reach your destination, and have patience as you navigate wet roads and slippery sections.
“City of Vernon snow clearing equipment and personnel are ready for the season and trucks are ready if required,” said Ian Adkins, manager of Roads, Drainage and Airport. “Our crews clear roads, lanes and cul-de-sacs on a priority basis, according to the city’s Snow and Ice Control Policy.”
Priority roads are arterials, collectors, bus routes, school zones and selected problem areas.
All remaining roads except lanes and cul-de-sacs are second on the priority list.
Lanes and cul-de-sacs are last.
Each snow and ice event is different, so depending on the scope and length of the snow event, it could take crews up to 72 hours to reach all portions of the city, once the snow has stopped falling. If the snow continues to fall, crews may be required to return to the first priority routes to keep the city moving.
Citizens are reminded that sidewalks adjacent to residential and commercial properties are the responsibility of the resident or tenant. It’s important these areas are kept clear for the safety of everyone who uses them.
When shovelling sidewalks and driveways, do not pile snow on travel lanes, storm drains, fire hydrants or bus pickup/drop-off areas, as these create issues for travel and safety concerns for the community.
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