The church bells are silent today as the City of St. John’s has extended its state of emergency until at least through tonight. However, some restrictions have been lifted.

Municipalities say their number one priority is opening the roads, many of which were left impassable.

Mayor Danny Breen says private snow contractors will be permitted to conduct snow clearing operations throughout the day, effective immediately.

Gas stations are permitted to be open for the purposes of fuel for snow clearing and pharmacies are opening from noon to 7 p.m. for emergency medication purposes.

The City is lifting some restrictions although the general state of emergency is still in effect. Gas stations may now open for emergency fuel needs; pharmacies for emergency medication refill; private snow operators may begin work. https://t.co/zWOhzRdgg1 #nlwx #nltraffic — City of St. John's (@CityofStJohns) January 19, 2020

Many municipalities in metro are under a state of emergency, but Wabana on Bell Island has become the first to lift the restriction.

Wabana on Bell Island has lifted its state of emergency. That will allow for the Flanders to make some crossings today. — VOCM News (@VOCMNEWS) January 19, 2020

Meanwhile, St.John’s Regional Fire Chief Sherry Colford wants people to use 911 for emergencies only.

She says they have gotten calls from people asking if they could send somebody to shovel their driveway.

Corner Brook Lends Assistance

The City of Corner Brook is pitching in to help with the east coast clean up from an historic storm that dumped at least 76 cm of snow on the capital city region.

The west coast city is well-familiar with major snowfall events.

Corner Brook Mayor Jim Parsons says the city is sending two loader/blower combinations, four operators and a mechanic to St. John’s to help with the cleanup.