A major winter storm descended upon the London region on Thursday, January 15, 2026, dumping heavy snow and creating treacherous conditions that have disrupted daily life. The significant snowfall has triggered a wave of cancellations and closures, with local authorities urging residents to exercise extreme caution if travel is necessary.
Widespread Travel Disruptions and Safety Warnings
The most immediate impact of the storm has been on transportation. All school buses have been cancelled across multiple school boards in the area, affecting student transportation for the day. Road conditions have deteriorated rapidly, with visibility reduced and surfaces becoming snow-covered and slippery. This has led to multiple collisions being reported, prompting warnings from officials for drivers to stay off the roads unless absolutely essential.
CTV London Meteorologist Julie Atchison provided an update, noting that flurries are expected to continue throughout the day, potentially adding to the already significant accumulations. The persistent snowfall is complicating cleanup efforts and making it difficult for crews to keep primary and secondary routes clear.
Broader Ontario Impacts and Municipal Response
The disruptive weather is not isolated to London. The storm system is affecting a large swath of the province. Similar conditions have been reported elsewhere, with snow events declared in the nearby cities of Kitchener and Cambridge. The situation underscores a challenging weather day for much of Southern Ontario.
Local municipal crews are actively engaged in plowing and salting operations, prioritizing major arteries and emergency routes. However, the intensity of the snow is creating a situation where roads are quickly covered again shortly after being cleared. Residents are advised to check for specific local road closure announcements from their municipality or the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.
Staying Safe During the Winter Blast
With the storm ongoing, public safety is the paramount concern. Authorities recommend that residents:
- Avoid non-essential travel to allow plows and emergency vehicles clear access.
- If driving is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for winter conditions and drive significantly below the speed limit.
- Allow for extra time for any necessary journeys and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors, such as seniors or those with limited mobility, who may need assistance.
The combination of continued snowfall, poor visibility, and icy road surfaces creates a high-risk environment. The cancellations and warnings are expected to remain in effect until the system moves through and cleanup operations can fully restore safe travel conditions across the London region.
