Premier Doug Ford helps drivers stranded during major Ontario snowfall
Premier Doug Ford is navigating the snow-covered streets of Toronto working to assist drivers who may be caught up in the winter storm hammering much of Ontario on Monday.
“I’m just in my 4 x 4 pickup trying to help people out. I just picked some gentleman up and dropped him off at home but I just encourage everyone to stay at home,” Ford told NEWSTALK 1010’s Jerry Agar.
In images sent to CTV News Toronto by the premier’s spokesperson, Ivana Yelich, Ford can be seen digging out vehicles that appear to be stuck in snowbanks at two intersections in Toronto.
The premier's efforts come as a blizzard warning issued by Environment Canada has now ended but a winter storm warning for Ontario remains in effect.
The blast of winter weather Monday morning was so significant that the city’s Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway were closed due to the poor conditions on the road, both of which have fully reopened.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is seen digging out a vehicle stuck in a snowbank on Jan. 17, 2022. (Ivana Yelich)
Schools in Toronto, York Region and other parts of Ontario were also closed to in-person learning due to the large accumulation of snow, which could reach 60 centimetres in some areas by day’s end.
A full list of affected schools is available here.
“If you can give someone a lift, they’re stuck in their car, pull over, if you have a 4 x 4, give them a lift somewhere and get them home safely. It’s an absolute disaster right now,” Ford said.
Speaking to CP24 Monday morning, Ford said it’s hard to recall when the province last saw this much snow while advising residents to exercise caution if they try to clear it.
“Be careful. Don’t feel like it's essential that you clear the snow right at this point,” Ford said.
CTV News Toronto has compiled a list of when you can expect your street to be plowed which can be found here.
Ford wasn't the only person helping rescue those stranded in the middle of the road. On Saint Germain Avenue, neighbours came together to help free a fire truck that was stuck in the snow. About a dozen people with a variety of shovels and snow blowers could be seen in video of the incident.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
DEVELOPING Michael Cohen takes the stand as testimony in Trump hush money case enters 4th week
The star prosecution witness in Donald Trump's hush money trial is set to take the stand Monday with testimony that could help shape the outcome of the first criminal case against an American president.
Police release 3D images of young child found in an Ontario river two years ago
Police have released a three-dimensional image of a young child whose remains were discovered in the Grand River in Dunnville, Ont. almost two years ago.
Steve Buscemi punched in the face while walking in N.Y.C.
Hollywood actor Steve Buscemi has been treated for injuries after being punched in the face while walking in New York City.
'Be very, very careful': Wildfire conditions 'still extreme,' says Alberta fire chief
As wildfire conditions remain 'extreme' in northern Alberta, residents are being urged to be extra cautious and follow a fire ban.
Air quality advisories issued in 5 provinces, 1 territory
Air quality advisories are in effect across Western Canada as smoky conditions plague some areas, according to the latest forecasts. Here's where.
Canucks' Zadorov fined $5,000 for post-game crosscheck on Oilers' McDavid
A Vancouver Canucks defenceman has been given the highest possible fine under the NHL's collective bargaining agreement after a scrum broke out at the end of Game 3 against the Edmonton Oilers Sunday night.
Jerry Seinfeld speech prompts pro-Palestinian demonstration at U.S. university graduation ceremony
A tiny contingent of Duke University graduates opposed pro-Israel comedian Jerry Seinfeld speaking at their commencement in North Carolina Sunday, with about 30 of the 7,000 students leaving their seats and chanting "free Palestine" amid a mix of boos and cheers.
Just how bad are ultraprocessed foods? Here are 5 things to know
Many foods fall under the category of ultraprocessed foods, depending on their exact ingredients. This type of food has been studied a lot lately, and the results aren’t great.
Irving Oil former president dies at age 93
Arthur L. Irving, chairman emeritus and former president of Irving Oil, has died at the age of 93.