An ice storm has caused power outages for tens of thousands of Ontarians, with roughly 35,000 customers without power in areas such as Tobermory, Parry Sound, and Peterborough. Environment Canada has issued freezing rain warnings for parts of Ontario and Quebec, with the storm expected to expand towards Ottawa and Montreal. In Orillia, ice accumulation of up to 25 millimeters is expected, leading to power outages and closures of public facilities like libraries.
The freezing rain is predicted to create slippery surfaces, broken tree branches, and more power outages throughout the affected areas. Police are advising against unnecessary travel during this time to ensure safety. The storm is expected to improve by Monday as it moves out of the province, but residents are urged to stay cautious and prepared for any lingering effects of the storm. This severe weather event has impacted various parts of central and southern Ontario, prompting closures and disruptions in daily life.
Hydro One, the provincial utility, has been actively working to restore power to customers affected by the outages. The widespread nature of the outages, concentrated in cottage country, has posed challenges for crews attempting to address the issues. The city of Orillia is one of the areas hit by power outages, leading to closures of public spaces like libraries. The community is advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
The ice storm has brought significant challenges to affected communities, with the potential for dangerous conditions such as slippery surfaces and falling tree branches. Public safety officials are monitoring the situation closely and urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the storm. Power outages have disrupted daily life for many Ontarians, with the hope that conditions will improve as the weather system moves out of the area.
As the storm continues to impact parts of Ontario and Quebec, authorities are working to keep residents informed and safe. Environment Canada is providing updates on the progression of the storm and offering guidance on how to stay safe during freezing rain events. The province is working to restore power to affected areas and ensure that essential services are operating smoothly in the midst of the storm. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for any further impacts from the ice storm.
Overall, the ice storm in Ontario has caused significant disruptions and power outages for tens of thousands of residents. With freezing rain warnings in place and the potential for more outages, authorities are taking precautionary measures to ensure public safety. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this severe weather event. The province is working diligently to address the challenges posed by the storm and restore normalcy to affected communities.