City of Markham Declares Significant Weather Event Due to Expected Snow, Freezing Rain, and Ice Pellets

MARKHAM, ON – February 17, 2026 - The City of Markham has declared a Significant Weather Event effective immediately and continuing until further notice, following a Yellow Winter Storm Watch issued by Environment Canada.

Weather Hazards

Environment Canada is forecasting beginning Wednesday morning and continuing through Wednesday evening:

• Snowfall amounts of 10 to 15 cm
• Risk of freezing rain and ice pellets
• Icy and slippery road conditions

These conditions may reduce visibility, create challenging travel conditions and increase the likelihood of ice buildup on roads, sidewalks and cycling routes throughout the day on Wednesday.

Under a Significant Weather Event declaration, the City’s public roadways are deemed to be in a state of repair until the declaration of the end of the event.

Residents are advised that roads, sidewalks and bicycle lanes may become hazardous, and are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel during this time. Those who must travel should exercise extreme caution.

Snow Clearing Operations

The City of Markham’s Operations team works around the clock to help keep roads clean and safe. Snow is cleared in the following order:

• Primary Roads (largest and busiest) are serviced first, followed by Secondary Roads, and then local neighbourhood roads and lanes.
• After plowing, some snow may remain on road surfaces — especially on local roads. It is still fine to drive on snow-covered roads, however please drive according to road and weather conditions.

Important Safety Reminders for Residents

• Do not park on City streets during winter events. Parked vehicles make plowing difficult and can delay operations.
• Do not push or throw snow onto the roadway when clearing driveways and walkways. Not only is it unsafe, it is also illegal. Note: snow is plowed to the right, and if you live on an inside corner, you will receive larger amounts of snow.
• Stay off all ponds, stormwater ponds and waterways. Ice in these areas is unpredictable and unsafe due to constant water flow.
• Track snowplow progress using Markham’s Winter Maintenance App at markham.ca/Winter.
• Be kind to Operations staff working tirelessly to keep the community safe — a simple wave or smile goes a long way.
• Residents can stay up to date by following the City on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
• The City also has a free monthly eNewsletter called MarkhamNow. Sign up to stay up-to-date on City news and events.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:  
media@markham.ca. 

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 370,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 corporate head offices and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

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