We get snow so rarely over here that when it happens (as in the last couple of weeks), it always comes as a real shock. I didn't see a snowplough out till last Wednesday, when it had already been snowing for a week. It's stopped now, but the temperature's been around zero so it hasn't melted and the pavements outside the town centre are still layered with several inches of extremely compacted snow. And there are still icicles clinging (dripping) to a rather alarming number of gutters all over the place.

But... free(-at-point-of-use) healthcare. Breaking something would be a painful inconvenience, but that's about it. It must be scary for you. I hope people get your route clear!