A historic snowstorm hit Waterloo region this weekend, breaking records and prompting safety warnings after widespread traffic disruptions.
Record-Breaking Weekend Snowfall
A rare early November storm swept across the Waterloo region on Sunday, leaving communities from Windsor to Ottawa under a thick blanket of snow. The unexpected surge of winter weather arrived after Environment Canada issued a special weather statement late Friday. Meteorologists tracked a low-pressure system moving through southwestern Ontario, bringing snowfall levels not recorded in nearly a century.
Historic Weather Records Surpassed
Environment Canada meteorologist Rob Kuhn reported that Kitchener saw roughly 14 centimetres of snow on Sunday, surpassing previous November 9 records of 10.2 centimetres set in 1921 and again in 1933. Measurements from the Eric D. Soulis Weather Station at the University of Waterloo showed snow accumulation building steadily throughout the day, rising from six centimetres at 10 a.m. to 13 centimetres by late evening.
Road Conditions and Emergency Response
The sudden burst of winter weather challenged drivers across the region, leading to hazardous road conditions and an increase in collisions. GTA tow truck operator James Michael said the storm kept crews responding continuously to stranded vehicles and roadside incidents. Ontario Provincial Police reported about 220 collisions across major highways in the Greater Toronto Area within 24 hours, along with another 120 vehicles left in ditches or stuck without available response.
Local Reports of Collisions
Waterloo Regional Police Service confirmed 45 motor vehicle collision calls in the same period as residents navigated slippery roads and reduced visibility. Police agencies emphasized caution, urging drivers to slow down, maintain distance from other vehicles, and ensure winter tires are installed early in the season.
Safety Guidance Moving Forward
Officials are reminding residents to treat this early snowfall as a preview of the winter ahead. Drivers are encouraged to clear snow from windows and mirrors before heading out and allow extra time for travel. With more seasonal weather expected in the coming weeks, regional authorities stress preparedness as the key to preventing further incidents.
