Haligonians urged to avoid non-essential drives

The Halifax Regional Municipality is asking drivers to stay off the roads, unless it's essential.

City streets are littered with downed branches, leaves and other debris.

There are also some downed trees blocking routes, and power outages have knocked out traffic lights at many intersections.

Those intersections need to be treated as all-way stops.

“It is critical that streets are clear of motorists, as this will assist emergency first responders who may need to adjust their routes due to debris and blocked streets,” HRM said in a news release.

The municipality said crews are starting off with clearing hospital routes, main roads and streets that are completely obstructed.

If you spot a tree blocking or impeding traffic, a sidewalk, or a bike lane, you can report it through 311.

If there's a downed municipally-owned tree on private property, HRM will remove it.

“Trees located on private land will be the sole responsibility of the homeowner. ,” HRM said. “The municipality is not responsible for removing brush and debris from private property.”