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Ontario Grapples with Widespread Power Outages Amidst Ice Storm
An ice storm that swept across Ontario over the weekend triggered extensive power outages, impacting over 300,000 Canadian residents, according to reports from Hydro One, the principal electricity distributor, on Sunday. The severe weather event has affected numerous communities throughout the province, causing significant disruptions.
Winter Storm Warnings Preceded Power Disruptions
Prior to the storm’s intensification, Environment Canada had issued winter storm advisories, alerting to the risk of freezing rain for Ottawa, parts of Quebec, and Ontario. Forecasters warned of continued precipitation, with a mix of snow and ice pellets expected to persist into Monday morning in certain locales.
Tree Damage Primary Cause of Outages and Flood Concerns
Hydro One clarified on its website that the power outages were predominantly caused by the excessive weight of freezing rain accumulating on tree limbs, leading to breakage and contact with power lines. The utility also cautioned about potential flooding risks in central Ontario.
Hundreds of Thousands of Customers Affected; Restoration Efforts Underway
As of Sunday afternoon, the Hydro One website indicated that the power disruptions were affecting more than 300,000 customers. The estimated time for power restoration is currently set for April 1st.
Alectra Reports Significant Customer Outages
Alectra, another major utilities provider, also reported widespread service interruptions. Approximately 35,000 of Alectra’s customers, primarily in Barrie and surrounding areas north of Toronto, were without power. In a statement released Sunday, Alectra acknowledged, “Restoration progress is hampered by ice accumulation on infrastructure, but all available crews are actively engaged.”
Orillia Declares State of Emergency
The city of Orillia, Ontario, has declared a state of emergency in response to the ongoing storm. The prolonged period of freezing rain has resulted in widespread power outages, hazardous road conditions, fallen trees and power lines, and damage to both public and private infrastructure throughout the city.
City Officials Emphasize Seriousness of the Situation
City officials reiterated the severity of the situation on their website, stating, “This remains a critical event characterized by dangerously icy roadways, numerous downed trees and hydro wires, and ongoing damage to essential infrastructure.”
Resident Accounts Highlight Extensive Storm Impact
Across Ontario, numerous residents have taken to social media to report road closures resulting from uprooted trees. Many individuals also described hearing the sound of trees collapsing under the weight of ice since the ice storm began, illustrating the pervasive impact of the severe weather system across the region.