Beyond checking a formal forecast, there are natural signs that can tip you off to an approaching major storm, giving you a bit of extra lead time to finish preparations before conditions turn.
A sharp, noticeable temperature drop over a short period is often one of the earliest signs that a significant weather system is moving in, particularly when it happens alongside increasing cloud cover. Rising wind speeds, even before any precipitation starts, frequently precede a major storm, especially systems associated with a Colorado low or similar pressure pattern common to Southern Ontario winters. Darkening skies earlier in the day than expected, combined with a heavier, more oppressive feel to the air, are subtle but real indicators worth paying attention to.
None of these signs replace checking an actual forecast, but they can serve as a useful gut check, especially if you have not looked at the weather in a few hours and conditions seem to be shifting. Official watches and warnings remain the most reliable source of information, and checking the forecast regularly in the days leading up to a potential storm gives you the clearest picture of what to expect and when.
Combining natural observation with regular forecast checks is the most reliable approach, since neither one alone tells the full story of a fast-developing winter system.
Get Your Property Ready Before the Snow
Once the signs and the forecast both point to a major storm, a few simple steps make clearing faster and safer:
- Pull cars into the garage or to the side of the driveway the crew can work around.
- Bring garbage and recycling bins in from the curb so they are not buried or knocked over.
- Check that driveway edge markers are upright so the plow can find the edges under deep snow.
- Clear toys, hoses and decorations off walkways and steps.
Why Heavy Storms Need a Plan in Place
During a major storm, snow removal crews work through routes of properties that are already booked. Homeowners who wait until the snow is falling often find nobody can fit them in. A seasonal plan avoids that: at Thames Valley Snow, once 5 cm has fallen your property is on the route automatically, with no call needed. Before the season, we mark driveway edges, steps and drains so they can be found under deep snow.
After the Storm: Ice and Refreeze
Big storms are often followed by a temperature swing. Snow that melts during the day can refreeze into black ice overnight, especially near downspouts and at the bottom of slopes. Salting is the main defence. Our seasonal salting add-on is $175 and includes freezing rain and refreeze visits, and pet-safe de-icer is available for $120 if you have pets or newer concrete.
Where to Check the Forecast
Environment Canada issues the official watches and warnings for the London area, and its forecasts are updated several times a day when a storm is approaching. Checking the forecast the evening before and again in the morning gives you the best picture of timing and expected totals. Natural signs are useful as a reminder to check, but the official forecast should decide how you plan your day, your commute and your preparations around the house.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much snow does a major storm usually bring?
It varies widely. Some systems drop a few centimetres, while larger ones can bring 15 cm or more over a day. The forecast is the best guide to the expected total.
Do I need to call for service during a big storm?
Not on a seasonal plan. Service starts automatically at 5 cm, and each visit is recorded with timestamped photos.
Want snow removal that starts without a phone call? Request a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also read about residential snow removal or commercial snow removal.
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.
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Seasonal snow removal from $650 + HST. Automatic at 5 cm, photo after every visit.
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