York Region’s response to winter storms

November 27, 2025
york region snow plow on the roads

York Region is prepared to keep roads safe with the powerful snow squalls arriving today. Environment Canada is forecasting 30 to 50 centimetres of snow in northern York Region, with blowing snow and reduced visibility, making travel challenging.

York Region’s crews are on the road 24 hours a day, seven days a week, working across four districts to quickly respond to winter events. Our teams prepare in advance of storms and continuously monitor road conditions for safe travel.

During winter storms, crews focus on plowing and applying salt to prevent ice buildup. It takes about 90 minutes to spread salt and sand and 120 minutes to plow one round of all Regional roads. Snow may fall on the road in between loops, but your plow will be back. In major snow events where space is limited, snow is temporarily stored along curbs.

Once the storm subsides, cleanup operations begin. York Region works with local municipal partners to remove stored snow before the next event.

Using real-time weather data, GPS tracking and road condition sensors, York Region monitors conditions around the clock to ensure timely and effective response before, during and after storm events. 

Motorists can do their part  

While crews are working hard to keep roads safe, drivers can help by following these winter safety tips.

Plan ahead

  • Stay off roads, if possible, during extreme weather conditions  
  • Let us do the driving by taking York Region Transit
  • Give yourself extra time to get to your destination  
  • Follow @YorkRegionGovt on social media for updates and tips  

Prepare your vehicle

  • Have winter tires on your vehicle  
  • Clear snow, ice and frost from all windows, headlights, taillights and roof  
  • Make sure your windshield fluid and vehicle fuel are topped up  
  • Carry a roadside emergency kit

Drive safely

  • Slow down and respect pedestrians crossing the road  
  • Drive a safe distance behind the plow; you may see them, but they may not see you if you are following too closely  
  • Only pass snow removal vehicles when a safe passing area is available, and the lane is clear of snow or treated with salt or sand; do not pass on the right  
  • When passing a plow, be sure to leave plenty of space; plows are wider than most vehicles and portions of the plow and blade may be obscured by blowing snow  
  • Don’t travel beside a snowplow; they can shift sideways after moving snow drifts  
  • Pedestrians should be visible and be seen
  • Report issues on Regional roads by using the Report a Problem app

For more information on our winter maintenance program, visit york.ca/Roads or watch our video below.