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Snow in Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows closes schools, causes power outages

More than 600 BC Hydro customers without power in Maple Ridge

Students in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows had a snow day on Monday, Feb. 3, while other residents had to deal with power outages. 

First thing Monday morning, SD42 announced schools would be closed due to snow and the poor conditions of roadside sidewalks posing a safety risk for pedestrians. 

All schools were closed including all district trades programs, all Riverside Centre programs, including Continuing Education and Ridge Meadows College.

Meanwhile  staff at BC Hydro were dealing with a number of outages in the region. 

As of Monday morning at 10:30 a.m., there were more than 600 customers without power in Maple Ridge – some due to trees across wires, another area due to a motor vehicle incident, and others that crews were still investigating. 

Between 15 to 20 centimetres of snow fell overnight with blizzard-like conditions and blowing snow, said the City of Maple Ridge online. Snow continued in some areas into the morning.
"Crews worked overnight to plow and de-ice roads and are out in full force today," said the city, and they will focus on priority routes first, and shift to secondary routes after the snow subsides and primary roads are clear.
"We also have a full crew clearing walkways around civic facilities and responding to downed trees," noted the city.
The notice, posted to the city's Facebook page, advised residents to be cautious while walking due to slick side streets and sidewalks; to drive with caution, to slow down and leave space; and to make sure they are driving with winter tires.
Transit buses and the West Coast Express remained operational with only minor delays.
Instructor-led and school-based programs at the Albion Community Centre and at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre were cancelled today. Although facilities remained open as warming centres.

The Greg Moore Youth Centre, at 1925 Haney Place is open today from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and the city recreation facilities and the Maple Ridge Public Library are open during regular hours. 

City of Pitt Meadows staff reminded residents: that if they must drive to ensure they have winter tires and slow down; to keep catch basins clear to prevent flooding; to make room for snow plows; to shovel their sidewalks; and ensure their neighbours don't need assistance. 

Both cities also reminded property owners that sidewalks along their property must be cleared by 10 a.m. following a snowfall. 
Residents of  Maple Ridge are asked to report any concerns at: MapleRidge.ca/Report or by calling 604-467-9581.

In Pitt Meadows concerns can be reported at: pittmeadows.ca/report.


 



Colleen Flanagan

About the Author: Colleen Flanagan

I got my start with Black Press Media in 2003 as a photojournalist.
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