Residents dig out after massive snowstorm blankets the burbs

Some suburban residents spent the morning digging out their driveways, but others took the day off to play in the fresh powder. CTV’s Tyler Fleming reports.

A powerful snowstorm has left suburban streets buried, forcing residents to dig out before they could get on with their day.

For Lori, the morning commute meant trudging through deep snow to the bus stop and regretting her choice of footwear.

• IN PICTURES: Winter storm hits Ottawa

“It’s really bad,” she said. “It’s impossible. I’m really suffering, but I’m not even wearing winter boots so it’s kind of my fault.”

Andrew Lefebvre, however, came prepared for his walk to work, with a set of old-fashioned, wooden snowshoes.

“Well, getting to work, you know, as you do, and there’s a snowstorm,” he said. “It was fine. It’s a little uneven, but it’s good enough. It gets you there a bit faster than walking in the deep snow.”

The heavy snowfall has left many struggling to clear their properties.

“You’re looking at a possible heart attack trying to move some of this stuff and get these snowbanks knocked down,” said Kanata resident Michael Francis. “I hope the neighbours out that don’t have a snow service and some of them are seniors and just can’t clear their driveways. I usually get about half a dozen or a little more in. It’s a good neighborhood. The neighbours are very nice, and I like to help them out.”

• 32 cm of snow pummels Ottawa, more snow on the way this weekend

In Barrhaven, Allen Sexton was also working the snow blower before heading to his job.

“Oh, it’s great ... I mean not great, but it gets out of bed in the morning I guess,” said Sexton. “I am self-employed so if you don’t work, you don’t get paid.”\

While many battled the snow, others embraced it. Javier and Ian, two young brothers, spent their snow day sledding.

“It’s a snow day,” exclaimed Javier. “We brought out the snow sleds and it’s been really fun.”

Elaine, watching her boys enjoy a winter’s day on the toboggan hill, said it’s the perfect excuse for some quality time.

“And, you know, it’s Family Day this coming long weekend so it’s just perfect timing to start it a little bit earlier if we can,” she said.

But road conditions were treacherous. Slick streets and unplowed sidewalks have made travel difficult, with some vehicles ending up in ditches.

• Parking bans, bus cancellations, flights grounded: Here’s what you need to know about the major storm hitting Ottawa

As the city works to clear the mess, residents continue to dig out—and, for some, make the most of the winter wonderland.