Based on coverage from CTV, Kingston Daily, and 91x.fm.
The first snowfall of the season has made its frosty debut in parts of Ontario, with Simcoe County and the Quinte region waking up to a winter wonderland. While the snow brings a picturesque charm, it also signals the start of the annual dance between school bus operators and Mother Nature.
Simcoe County's Snow Strategy Unveiled
In Simcoe County, the arrival of snow doesn't just mean dusting off the shovels. It kicks off a well-rehearsed routine by the Simcoe County Student Transportation Consortium (SCSTC) to ensure student safety. The process begins at the crack of dawn, with a designated 'snow captain' at each branch assessing road and weather conditions. This early bird approach allows for a comprehensive evaluation of factors like road conditions, visibility, and snow accumulation.
By 5:30 a.m., a conference call gathers all the data, including whether snowplows have cleared the main routes. This meticulous process determines whether buses will run or stay parked. Once a decision is made, the Simcoe County District School Board and its Catholic counterpart swiftly inform parents and students, with updates typically communicated between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. For those keen on real-time updates, the 'BusPlanner Delays' app is a handy tool.
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Record Snowfall in Quinte Region
Meanwhile, the Quinte region saw a record-breaking snowfall, with CFB Trenton recording 9.8 centimetres—shattering the previous record of 1.8 cm set in 1976. Despite the snowy surprise, Tri-Board Transportation managed to keep buses running in areas like Belleville and Quinte West. However, the wintery conditions led to cancellations in Napanee, Kingston, and surrounding counties, including Northumberland and Peterborough.
The decision to cancel buses in these areas was attributed to the challenging road conditions, particularly on secondary streets. Yet, schools remain open, offering families the option to brave the elements if they choose.
Preparing for More Winter Weather
While Simcoe County has yet to cancel buses this season, the SCSTC acknowledges that it's only a matter of time before winter weather tests their well-oiled machine. As the season progresses, both regions will continue to rely on their tried-and-true methods to navigate the icy challenges ahead.
With winter now officially on the doorstep, Ontarians are reminded of the delicate balance between enjoying the snowy scenery and ensuring safety on the roads. Whether you're in Simcoe County or the Quinte region, it's clear that when it comes to winter weather, preparation is key.
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