The City of Barrie, Ontario, has resorted to using a landfill property for snow storage amid unprecedented snowfall this winter. With reports indicating that the city has received over 300 centimeters (more than 9.5 feet) of snow since November, officials have acknowledged that the decision comes after the city's operations center ran out of space for the accumulated snow. This situation is part of what has been classified as the longest continuous 'Significant Weather Event declaration' in Barrie's history.

City officials have indicated that the Ferndale Drive North property will be utilized for the foreseeable future, especially given the ongoing nature of the winter weather. Dave Friary, the city's director of operations, mentioned that the decision to store snow at the landfill is contingent upon further snowfall and the need for snow removal efforts throughout the city. Importantly, it was clarified that the snow is not mixed with household waste but is simply stored in a designated area at the landfill.

As Barrie navigates this challenging winter scenario, this decision highlights the impact of extreme weather patterns and the necessary adjustments municipalities must make to cope with such conditions. This measure reflects an increasing trend among various Canadian cities facing similar snow accumulation challenges, as climate change intensifies weather fluctuations and pushes local governments to find innovative solutions for snow management.