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Snow Update - January 12, 2024

Nanaimo saw a small amount of snow overnight, and with the colder than normal temperatures, it's expected to stick around for a few days. 

On the Roads

City and contractor crews are out. You might not see them laying salt down because temperatures are below the effective range for road salt. However, the brine laid down over the last few days has more than enough salt in it to help clear the roads once more vehicles start going over it.

Drivers, be prepared and drive according to conditions:

  • slow down,
  • give other vehicles lots of room,
  • have patience for other drivers,
  • make sure you vehicle is winter ready with winter-rated tires
  • clear the outside of your vehicle of snow and ice, and
  • pay extra attention for pedestrians and cyclists.

If you are walking and cycling, please make sure vehicles can see you by wearing high visibility clothing and, if possible, a light. Pedestrians, please make sure vehicles have come to a complete stop before you cross the street.

Please make sure to give City plows plenty of room to work as they may make wide right turns or other unexpected movements to clear snow and spread salt. 

Find more information on the City's response to Snow and Ice.

Garbage and Recycling

Collection is taking place today as scheduled. However, if some areas still unsafe or inaccessible the City may not be able to collect. If carts are not collected by 9 pm tonight, please remove from the curbside to allow for plows.

Parks and Recreation

All Parks, Recreation and Culture facilities are open and programs are running.

Please do not venture out onto local lakes as they are not completely frozen.

    Please use caution in Nanaimo's parks. Trails, boardwalks, bridges, stairs and playground equipment can become slippery and hazardous when there is snow and ice.

    If cancelations or closures do occur, you can check before you come. Stay up to date with Parks, Recreation and Culture.

    Around Your Home/Business

    To help avoid flooding, please clear ice, snow, leaves and debris from catch basins and storm drains in front of your property. If flooding occurs, sand and sand bags for filling (bring a shovel and ties) are available at the Public Works yard. To report flooding, please call Public Works 24-hour hotline at 250-758-5222.

    Check in on any friends, family and neighbours who may need assistance.

    To prevent pipes from freezing/bursting, let your cold water faucets drip overnight.

    Thank you to residents and businesses who have cleared sidewalks in front of their properties. 

    Please do your best to remove snow and ice from sidewalks in front of your property within 24 hours, so that pedestrians have a safe place to walk and can stay clear of oncoming traffic. Please do not shovel snow onto the road. If you know of someone who may need a helping hand, please reach out to them. 

    The City clears sidewalks around parks, bridges, commuter trails and major City facilities as quickly as staff can get to them. 

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