March 16, 2023 – The Corporation of the Town of Cochrane is declaring a Significant Weather Event as a result of a winter storm warning issued by Environment Canada for Cochrane, starting at 3:00 P.M. on March 16, 2023 and continuing until further notice.

According to Environment Canada, heavy snow (total possible snowfall amounts of 30 cm to 50 cm) with gusty northeasterly winds resulting in blowing snow could reduce visibility to near zero at times. Snow and blowing snow is expected Thursday, March 16^th and will last into Saturday evening.

A “Significant Weather Event” is defined as an approaching or occurring weather hazard with the potential to pose a significant danger to users of the highways within a municipality.

The declaration is issued in accordance with Ontario Consolidated Regulation 239/03 under the Municipal Act. All roads and sidewalks maintained by the Town are considered to be in a “state of repair” until further notice. The declaration is not a notice to reduce level of service or the closure of municipal roads; it is to notify drivers and pedestrians, that due to the current forecasted conditions, caution is to be exercised when traveling on municipal roads and avoid any unnecessary travel.

Town staff will work diligently to ensure public safety, but it may take longer than normal to maintain the roads and sidewalks.

The Town will update the public when the significant weather even has ended, through our website, social media, and local media. Thank you for your cooperation.