What's the Average First Snowfall Date in London, Ontario?

4 min read · Thames Valley Snow, London, Ontario

Every year around the same stretch of the calendar, London residents start asking the same question: when is the first snow actually going to hit? Looking at historical averages gives a reasonable, though not exact, answer.

On average, London sees its first measurable snowfall of the season sometime in mid to late November, though the exact date varies noticeably from year to year. Some years bring an early dusting in late October, while other years hold off until closer to December before the first real snow arrives. Lake-effect activity off Lake Huron can also bring an early, localized snowfall to parts of the region before a wider system officially kicks off the season.

The first snowfall rarely means winter has fully arrived either. Early snow often melts within a day or two as temperatures swing back above freezing, and it can take several more weeks before consistent snow cover and colder temperatures settle in for good.

For planning purposes, this average date is a useful marker but not something to rely on too heavily. Waiting until the first snow actually falls to book snow removal service or prepare a driveway can mean scrambling if that year happens to come early, since demand for both service signups and prep work spikes right before the season starts.

Why early snow catches people out

The first snowfall is often wet and followed by a thaw, then a hard freeze overnight. That combination leaves slush frozen into ruts on driveways and walkways. Even a light early storm can make steps slippery, so it pays to have salt or de-icer ready before you need it.

Getting ready before the first snow

• Book your snow removal before the season starts
• Mark driveway edges, steps and drains so they can be found under snow
• Move garden decorations and hoses away from the driveway edge
• Keep pet-safe de-icer by the door
• Clear gutters so meltwater does not refreeze on walkways

How our season lines up with London snow

Our standard season runs December 1 to March 31. Because snow can come earlier or stay later, you can extend coverage from November 1 to April 15 for $95. Once you are booked, your driveway is cleared automatically every time snowfall reaches 5 cm, with return visits during long storms, and the City windrow at the end of your driveway is cleared too. Edges, steps and drains are marked before the season, and you get a timestamped photo after every visit.

Quotes are measured from City of London maps and aerial imagery, so you get a fixed price within 1 business day without a site visit. A 30% deposit holds your spot, and the balance is due before December 1. Seniors and front-line workers save 5% on seasonal contracts.

Why booking early helps you

Booking before the season means your property is measured, priced and marked before the first storm, rather than after it. Early bookings also give you time to compare quotes calmly, pick add-ons such as salt or pet-safe de-icer, and spread the cost with the 30% deposit before the balance is due in December. If a family member is arranging service for a parent, there is also time to decide who receives the invoices and visit updates.

Book before the first storm in three steps

• Send your address through the quote form, or call or text (548) 888-8702.
• We measure your driveway from City of London maps and send a fixed seasonal price within 1 business day.
• Sign and pay a 30% deposit to hold your spot. The balance is due before December 1, and service starts automatically at 5 cm.

First snowfall FAQ

Am I covered if it snows in November?

Only with the extension, which covers November 1 to April 15 for an extra $95.

How fast can I get a quote?

You get a fixed price within 1 business day.

Ready to plan your winter? Get a free quote, or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also read about residential snow removal and our prices.

What's included… and what's extra

A Thames Valley Snow seasonal residential plan is $650 to $725 + HST for a single or 1.5-car driveway, $815 for a double and $1,050 for a 3-car, paver or stamped driveway. It covers clearing the driveway every time snowfall reaches 5 cm, plus the windrow the City plow leaves at the end of the driveway. Full details are on our snow removal prices page.

Popular add-ons, priced per season: walkway and steps from $150 (a walkway with up to 6 steps is $175), City sidewalk $90, salting $175, priority early-morning clearing $125, pet-safe de-icer $120, and the November 1 to April 15 season extension $95. 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.