Issuing a warning for Western Lambton County, Petrolia, and Sarnia areas, Environment Canada warned residents of the upcoming snow squalls. Monday night through Tuesday morning an estimated 400 motorists on Highway 402 were stranded. Rescue efforts are underway.
Sarnia Ontario Natural Disaster
Sarnia, Ontario has been declared a natural disaster area due to whiteout conditions. According to Canada.com, hundreds of motorists are still stranded. A state of emergency was announced Monday night December 13, 2010 due to the severity of snow squalls.
Police reports have stated that Canadian Forces will be aiding efforts to rescue those in need. According to MDOT Tuesday morning, motorists needing to travel were able to head into Sarnia by crossing the Blue Water Bridge.
Snow Storm Natural Disaster
Roads are being closed with efforts to keep more motorists form being stranded. Poor visibility on many roads has caused them to become closed until further notice. Many roads have spots that cannot be penetrated due to the piled up snow. Local radio stations have announced many other closings including libraries, schools, museums, and even local businesses.
According to police reports and Defense Minister Peter MacKay, the Canadian Forces are gearing up to head out into the storm along with five military helicopters to aid in the efforts to rescue all stranded motorists.
Recent Natural Disaster
Warnings have been issued by police that stranded motorists need to stay in the vehicles. If the car will start, motorists need to clear any snow away from the exhaust before starting the vehicle. If the exhaust has been blocked, the fumes will have nowhere to go and can endanger the passengers inside the vehicle.
Towing vehicles at this time is not advised by the Canadian Automobile Association. Transportation will be provided to suitable locations until emergency calls have been answered. Across the province, a reported 93,000 residences were without power on Monday. By Tuesday (December 14, 2010) the number had decreased to around 75,000.
Natural Disaster 2010 Update
According to Canada.com, a bus is following a snow plow to shuttle stranded motorists to a safe location. Those helping in the rescue efforts have worked throughout the day. By mid-day Tuesday, nearly 120 motorists had been rescued with an approximate 280 still to be rescued according to Ontario Provincial Police.
Gusts have continued for 36 hours as rescuers continue their efforts. A local motel manager, George Rosema, has graciously allowed travelers to bunk anywhere they can find room at his motel. He has even fed the hungry travelers from his own freezer.
Warnings are being issued from the New Brunswick police that residents in that area should prepare in case of flooding. It is advised that, when traveling in cold winter months, motorists should carry a warm blanket, bottled water, a cell phone, and have a full tank of gas before taking off.
Canada.com, "Snow Strands Hundreds in Ontario, While Rain Washes Out Roads in N.B.", (accessed December 14, 2010).
My Fox Detroit.com, "Highway 402 Declared Natural Disaster Area", (accessed December 14, 2010).
Annette Phillips - Annette Phillips is the Topic Editor for Natural Disasters. Phillips is also the author of Willow's Ride and a licensed Cosmetologist.
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