York Region's Response to Winter Storms

January 24, 2026

York Region is prepared to keep roads safe with the powerful snow squalls expected tomorrow. Environment Canada is forecasting between 10 to 20 centimetres of snow across 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

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 here

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