Due to continued historic levels of snowfall, the Somerville snow emergency and parking ban will remain in effect until further notice, Somerville schools will be closed at least through Tuesday, and I am asking that anyone able to avoid travel in Somerville stay off the roads on Tuesday to allow our plows to do their job quickly and efficiently. Public safety and securing safe passage for emergency vehicles especially on narrow side streets remains our primary concern and focus. For this reason, residents should be prepared for an extended parking ban on even side parking. To ease this burden, the ban will eventually be lifted on a rolling basis to widen roads and free up parking sooner starting with main roads. Please watch for announcements in the next several days.

I am also calling on anyone with a driveway, or any businesses or property owners with spare space in their lots, to please share them with others. Meanwhile, city and school parking lots will remain available for emergency parking as long as the ban is in place. Crews are currently plowing and will switch to hauling and melting on Wednesday.

With more snow predicted for Thursday and extreme cold expected later this week, we will continue to monitor the weather and address ground conditions.

We understand the difficulties and frustrations this winter has caused residents. It has been challenging for us too. I want to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation, and for doing your part to keep our community safe. As we move forward, please remember to check all external vents and exhaust pipes to be sure they are clear from snow and ice. If you are able, consider assisting our Fire Department in shoveling out hydrants in your neighborhood, and remember to check on neighbors who may need assistance.

Please visit www.somervillema.gov/snow or our Facebook and Twitter feeds and contact 311 (617-666-3311 from outside the city) for further information. Stay warm and be safe.