One of the most common questions homeowners ask before winter is how to actually know when a storm is coming, rather than being surprised by snow already falling. The good news is that Southern Ontario storms are usually visible days in advance on a good forecast, if you know what to watch for.
Environment Canada issues a tiered system of alerts, starting with a snowfall watch when conditions look favourable for accumulation, followed by a snowfall warning once the event becomes more certain. Checking a reliable local forecast daily through the winter months, rather than only when snow is already on the ground, is the single best habit for staying ahead of a storm. Weather apps with hour-by-hour breakdowns are especially useful for London, since timing can shift by several hours as a system moves through.
Wind direction and temperature trends matter almost as much as the raw snowfall total. A storm that looks modest on paper can behave very differently depending on whether it arrives with strong winds, which can create drifting and reduce visibility even with lighter accumulation. Watching the temperature trend in the 24 hours before a storm also helps predict whether you are getting dry powder or heavy wet snow.
For anyone managing a driveway, business lot, or storm-day schedule, this kind of tracking is not just idle curiosity, it directly affects when service should be expected. Knowing a storm is arriving overnight rather than mid-afternoon changes how you plan your morning.
Thames Valley Snow monitors forecasts closely in the days leading up to any expected system, which lets us plan routes and crew hours before the first flake falls rather than reacting after the fact. This proactive approach is part of why our customers rarely get caught without a plan.
Use official alerts
Environment Canada issues snowfall warnings, winter storm warnings and freezing rain warnings for London and Middlesex. Turning on alerts in a weather app or on your phone means you will know a day or two ahead.
Watch the timing, not just the amount
A storm that starts at 4 a.m. affects your commute more than a larger one that falls during the day. Overnight storms are where priority early-morning clearing ($125) helps most.
Plan your morning
If heavy snow is expected overnight, park in the garage or at the top of the driveway, keep a shovel by the door for the steps, and leave a little extra time.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to call when a storm is coming?
No. Seasonal visits are automatic once 5 cm has fallen.
How will I know the driveway is done?
A timestamped photo is taken after every visit.
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