Gravenhurst state of emergency

Snowmageddon Hits Gravenhurst: Can You Dig It?

Gravenhurst is buried under more than a metre of snow! We're talking an old-school snow party that’s got the town in a state of emergency. Find out how they're digging out!

Gravenhurst, Ontario has officially declared a state of emergency as it tries to dig itself out from under an astonishing 140 centimetres (that’s more than a metre, folks!) of snow. The weekend's intense snow squalls wreaked havoc in this quaint cottage-country town, forcing residents to brace themselves for some serious winter woes. Snow-clearing crews have been working hard, and while they're making progress, the town remains in a chilly limbo as they face more potential storms on the horizon.

In response to this wintry chaos, the City of Vaughan has stepped up, sending winter contractors to lend a hand, which includes four blowers and operators that will assist in clearing roads and making it safe for everyone again. Sounds like a York Region high-stakes snow-themed reality show, right? They've got to thank their lucky stars they have a Highway 11 that has reopened, allowing some movement in and out of Gravenhurst, but don't pack your bags for a sweet escape just yet. The fight against the snow-filled behemoth isn't over yet!

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has also chimed in, urging residents to stay safe and take necessary precautions during this emergency. It appears that the storm left not only snow piles behind but also a few stranded vehicles and power outages. And can we just take a moment to appreciate how snow can literally turn into a powerful villain in the Canadian winter saga?

As Gravenhurst digs itself out, let’s not forget that this snowstorm is a reminder of what winter in Canada is all about. Feeding the geese with leftover bread in the summer might be fun, but here’s a stunning fact: Did you know that Ontario's Muskoka region is famous for its vast lakes and breathtaking scenery, attracting visitors year-round? And another fun tidbit: The term "snowmageddon" first popped up in our everyday vocabulary in 2010, but it looks like Gravenhurst is giving it a run for its money! Get those snow shovels ready, folks!