Days-long winter storm paralyzes Springwater, roads remain closed

A prolonged and powerful winter storm continues to grip the Township of Springwater and surrounding areas, leaving roads treacherous, motorists stranded, and emergency crews stretched thin.

Township officials say snow squalls with near-zero visibility have made travel dangerous across the municipality, forcing widespread road and facility closures.

Fire and Emergency Services, along with township staff and police have been working around the clock to assist stranded drivers and maintain public safety.

An Emergency Alert was issued Tuesday morning, directing all non-emergency travel to be avoided.

Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin praised the community response in a social media post, highlighting the dedication and teamwork shown throughout the significant weather event.

“As we continue to be stormed in, our Fire and Emergency Services and Springwater staff have once again rallied to ensure our residents and those passing through are safe,” Coughlin said. “Situations like this remind us that while we can’t control the weather, we can control how we respond and Springwater responds with heart, teamwork, dedication and service.”

The Elmvale Community Hall located on Queen Street has served as a warming and refuge centre for the second day and will remain open for the time being.

“The first night, we had roughly around 50 people in the shelter. Some venture to go towards Barrie. That was the only viable road to get out of Springwater at that point. And then last evening, we had probably another close to 50 or 60 people in the shelter,” said Jeff French, deputy fire chief of Springwater.

Staff says all township facility closures remain in effect.

Road closures status

What’s opened: Highway 26: Horseshoe Valley Road to County Road 10, Nottawasaga 27/28 Sideroad, Crossland Road: County Road 92 to Horseshoe Valley Road, County Road 92: Elmvale to Wasaga Beach.

What’s closed: All Flos Roads west of County Road 27, Crossland Road: Tiny Township Concession 4 to County Road 92.

Officials note that roads throughout Springwater and bordering areas including Clearview, and Wasaga Beach continue to experience significant delays for towing and emergency services.

Entering a closed road is dangerous and impedes snow removal operations, delaying access for emergency services and crews.

“Currently fire and OPP are out coordinating, now trying to get those vehicles removed so we can start getting those roads open,” French told CTV News.

Residents are being urged to travel only if absolutely necessary and to follow all posted road closures.