Ice Storm Causes Widespread Damage Across Central Ontario

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

NORTH DURHAM/KAWARTHA LAKES: A powerful ice storm swept through much of Central Ontario over the weekend, leaving a trail of destruction across Kawartha Lakes, Brock, Uxbridge, and Scugog Township. The storm, which struck on Saturday, March 29th, brought significant accumulations of freezing rain, causing hazardous road conditions, widespread power outages, and extensive damage to trees and infrastructure.

The impact of the storm continues to be felt, as of Monday, March 31st. Municipal officials have urged residents to remain cautious, particularly with strong winds expected overnight which could cause additional damage. "We strongly encourage residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to check in on vulnerable neighbours, only if it’s safe to do so," said, Brock Regional Councillor, Mike Jubb.

Emergency response teams have been working tirelessly to manage the aftermath. The municipality’s Emergency Operations Centre has been fully active, closely monitoring conditions and coordinating cleanup efforts. Public works and Hydro One crews are prioritizing power restoration and clearing debris from major routes. Urban roads have seen some improvement but many rural roads remain impassable, due to fallen trees and downed power lines.

The Significant Weather Event Declaration, in place since March 29th, remains active in Brock, Uxbridge, and Kawartha Lakes. "A number of routes are blocked by downed trees, and several live power lines pose a significant hazard," officials warned. Authorities have urged residents to respect road closures and barricades. "Please do not report downed trees on roads; our crews are actively working to clear them as quickly and safely as possible," Mr. Jubb stated.

As ice buildup weighs down branches and power lines, Hydro One has deployed crews across the region to restore electricity. "Our crews are out in full force, working in challenging conditions, to bring power back to our customers," a Hydro One representative said. To "more than 257,000 customers [power has] been restored, since the storm began, but we anticipate it will take several days to fully restore power to all affected areas. We won’t stop until every customer is restored."

Meanwhile, Kawartha Conservation has issued a Flood Outlook, in effect until March 31st, warning of potential flooding in vulnerable areas. Officials are monitoring the risk of high runoff, ice jams, and lakeshore erosion. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Authorities continue to encourage residents to stay up to date with road conditions, via www.municipal511.ca, and to follow municipal websites and social media for further updates. "We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our residents as we work through these difficult conditions," Councillor Jubb said. "Safety remains our top priority."

With additional freezing rain and strong winds in the forecast, residents are urged to prepare for ongoing disruptions and to remain vigilant in the days ahead.