(Image Credit: Cam Lee/northeastNOW Staff)

By Cam Lee

Clearing storm sewer drains, culverts

City crews in Melfort clearing snow and ice ahead of melt

Mar 24, 2026 | 10:26 AM

City of Melfort Public Works crews have been busy trying to clear the streets ahead of an expected dump of snow. 

Upwards of 15 cm of snow could fall today through tomorrow, and crews have been trying to clear snow to allow the melting snow to drain properly ahead of the warmer spring weather. 

“Public Works crews are responding to the melt as we do every spring – crews are clearing away the snow and ice form around the storm sewer drains and culverts, as well as steaming the catch basins and storm pipes to ensure the meltwater can be carried away,” Director of Public Works Kalyna Cipywnyk told northeastNOW. 

There have been several calls from residents about blocked storm drains and pooling water at intersections, and Cipywnyk said they do their best to respond promptly. The frequent snowfalls and fluctuating temperatures have impacted the effectiveness of the city’s efforts to manage the meltwater, Cipywnyk explained. 

“We can thaw a storm drain or a culvert one afternoon and then have it refreeze overnight. Snow removal efforts are impacted by the underlying layers of ice and slush, and ultimately it takes a longer time to clear a street than it would in December or January.” 

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Cipywnyk said there are benefits and challenges to slow and fast melt situations. Each year has a different challenge, and she said crews try to leverage what was learned in previous years to respond more effectively depending on the weather and temperature. 

“The slower melt has allowed crews to proactively clear our drainage channels north of the city, which will help carry the water away when the temperatures warm up,” explained Cipywnyk. 

There are a few cars that are parked on streets under the still significant amount of snow from previous storms. Cipywnyk said the city’s bylaw enforcement team responds to specific complaints about vehicles parked too long on the street from residents, or if the vehicle is inhibiting snow clearing. Vehicles can only be parked in one spot on the street for up to 48 hours. 

The significant snowfall this winter has led to larger snow and ice piles throughout the city, and Cipywnyk said crews have been prioritizing clearing the piles around corners and storm drains. Grader and loader crews have been out over the past week scraping ice and piling snow and ice into a centre windrow or hauling it away. 

“The city appreciates everyone’s patience with the crews. We understand that everyone is excited about the warmer weather on the horizon and for the streets to be clear.” 

She added drivers should respect work zone signage and take care while around city crews. Residents with concerns, or who would like to report ponding water or a pothole, can contact City Hall. 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com