A multi-day storm is a different challenge than a single overnight snowfall. When snow keeps falling for 24, 48, or even 72 hours, the usual one-and-done clearing approach does not work, and both homeowners and businesses need a different mindset going in.
Start by clearing as much snow as possible during natural breaks in the storm rather than waiting for it to fully end. Letting snow pile up over several days makes it heavier, harder to move, and more likely to compact into ice under foot or tire traffic. If your snow removal service works on a per-visit basis, confirm ahead of time how they handle extended events, since some storms call for multiple visits rather than one at the very end.
Snow storage becomes a real issue during multi-day events too. Piles that seemed reasonable after the first push can grow into obstacles that block sightlines, driveways, or fire routes by day two or three. Planning where extra snow will go before the storm starts saves a lot of headaches partway through.
For businesses, a multi-day storm often means adjusting staffing and delivery schedules, since employees and customers may have trouble reaching the property safely on the worst days. Communicating early with staff about expected conditions helps avoid last-minute scrambling.
Before the Storm Starts
Move vehicles where they will not block clearing, bring in anything that could be buried, and make sure edges of the driveway and walkways are marked so they can still be found under deep snow. Check you have salt or ice melt on hand for steps, and charge phones and flashlights in case the power goes out.
During the Storm
Keep doorways, steps and a path to the driveway open between visits. Clearing a small amount often is far easier than lifting heavy, packed snow later. Keep dryer vents, furnace exhausts and fire hydrants near your home free of drifting snow, since blocked vents can be dangerous.
How Thames Valley Snow Handles Long Storms
Seasonal plans run from December 1 to March 31 and are triggered automatically every time 5 cm or more falls, with return visits during long storms so snow does not build up into a solid mass. The City windrow is cleared after the street plow passes, and a timestamped photo is sent after every visit. Seasonal salt for $175 covers freezing rain and refreeze visits, which are common at the end of long storms.
For Businesses
Commercial sites are cleared before opening, with sidewalks, entrances and ramps hand-cleared and salted and snow piled away from doors and drains. If you need a predictable cost through a stormy winter, commercial clients can choose a fixed seasonal price or an event cap.
After the Storm Ends
Once the snow stops, check that drains near your driveway and downspouts are clear so meltwater can run off instead of freezing into a sheet of ice. Look over steps and walkways the next morning, since a sunny afternoon followed by a cold night often brings refreeze. Clear snow off vents and meters again if drifting continued after the last visit.
Check on Neighbours
Long storms are hardest on older neighbours. A quick knock or text to make sure their steps are safe and they have what they need goes a long way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will you come back if it is still snowing?
Yes. Long storms get return visits on seasonal plans.
Do I need to call when a big storm is coming?
No. Service starts automatically at 5 cm.
Want a fixed price for your property? Get a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also read about residential snow removal and salting and ice control.
What's included… and what's extra
A Thames Valley Snow seasonal residential plan starts from $650 for a standard driveway. It covers clearing the driveway every time snowfall reaches the trigger depth in your agreement, plus the windrow the city plow leaves at the end of the driveway. Larger driveways are priced on our snow removal prices page.
Popular add-ons, priced per season: walkway and steps $150–175, salting $175, priority service $125, pet-safe salt $120, driveway extension $95 and city sidewalk clearing $90. Add only what your property needs; everything is listed on the quote so there are no surprises. Get your fixed price or call or text (548) 888-8702.
Want it handled for you?
Seasonal snow removal from $650 + HST. Automatic at 5 cm, photo after every visit.
Get my free quote