Winter storm brings slick roads and power outages to Hamilton, Niagara

As extreme weather continues across Canada, conditions in Hamilton and Niagara have brought slick roads, power outages and flood risks.

In Hamilton, heavy snow combined with falling temperatures created the perfect conditions for ice conditions on roads and walkways.

Stacey Prieur says her drive from Burlington to London was scarier than expected.

“The 403 was kind of a big white mess. I saw a lot of cars in the ditch. A lot of big trucks in the ditch too.”

She described whiteouts that made it difficult to see the road.

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“You know driving by myself, I want to be safe, but I’m thinking of the people I have to get home too. I was having my come to Jesus moment.”

Environment Canada issued wind warnings in Niagara Falls, Welland and the southern Niagara Region, where hundreds were without power.

In Fort Erie, fears of flooding have shut down roads and recreational paths with strong waves expected.

The weather is less severe because of the distance from Lake Erie, says climatologist David Philips.

“You often think, well Hamilton, Niagara, the same weather. No no no no.” said Philips.

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“Air streamers coming up from the southwest can hit Niagara Falls coming off of Lake Erie and so we’re going to see a lot more snow for them then in the Hamilton area, but people driving from Hamilton to Buffalo will have to go through walls of snow.”

He adds the winds in Hamilton will be very powerful in the coming days, with flurries continuing to cut down visibility and temperatures consistently below zero day and night.

“Interestingly enough we’re reaching this week in Hamilton, we’re coming up to what we call the dead of winter. this is typically the coldest moment of winter.” said Philips.

“People who want to build their backyard skating rink or go snowshoeing or skiing, they’re going to have their moment.”

Experts recommend that when temperatures drop people keep an emergency kit in their vehicle with items such as a flashlight, warm blanket and snacks go a long way in the worst case scenario.