ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Hours after a monster snowstorm blasted the Avalon Peninsula, most streets in and around the St. John's metro area remain impassible Saturday, as the state of emergency remained in place Saturday.
After massive snowfall amounts and blizzard conditions tore thought the region - with even plows ordered off the road Friday night - things have been at a standstill, but that hasn't stopped many people from zooming up and down normally busy roads - on Ski-Doos.
Many thrill-seeking snowmobilers are taking advantage of the record-breaking, about 90-centimetre dumping of snow to take joyrides down main roads and throughout neighbourhoods.
That's a no-no, according to police.
"We're asking people to refrain from using their leisure vehicles at this time. We're still under a state of emergency," RNC Const. James Cadigan said, noting it could potentially hinder and create dangerous situations with city snow-clearing crews on the roads.
"We're working with municipalities as they work to clear up from the storm … We want people to limit the risk until we get a handle on things."
One woman in labour reportedly drove to the Health Sciences Centre on a snowmobile Friday night at the peak of the storm, which many are referring to on social media as "snowmageddon."
Cadigan said in case of emergencies, responders are working to ensure people get the help they need.
According to the Department of Transportation and Works, plenty of progress is being made snowclearing.
"Priority remains on assisting first responders and power crews and clearing main arteries," it stated on Twitter.
Newfoundland Power crews have also been busy attempting to restore power to the 21,000 people who lost it since Friday. They are responding as roads are cleared.
"Heavy snow drifts and narrow roads are making getting around tough," the company stated on its Twitter account. "They're on it, working hard to restore power safely."
Twitter: TelyRosie
