Parts of Ontario continues to be impacted by the ice storm that moved through the province last night. Many regions are without power across the 705 including Huntsville.
Hydro One contacted 705BLACKFLY.COM with the following information:
“Severe thunderstorms overnight resulted in outages and is still moving through parts of central and eastern Ontario. Crews are out working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. At this time, Huntsville and Minden are the hardest hit areas. Customers can check our outage map to see updated restoration times for their area.
We anticipate additional outages as freezing rain and high winds are expected to continue into tomorrow. We’re encouraging customers to prepare for the potential of an extended power outage. This includes restocking their emergency kit with items that reflect who is in their household. Items such as water, nonperishable food, cash, blankets, medication, flashlights, extra batteries to charge cell phones– anything you may need to have on hand.
If you spot a fallen line, it’s critical to keep at least 10 metres back – that’s the length of one school bus, even if it does not appear to be live. Report it to Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235. If you’re in an area that’s experiencing flooding and you can see that water is about to reach your outlets, you can call Hydro One to disconnect your power. Water and electricity do not mix.”
On social media, Hydro One also reminds residents using generators to make sure it’s outside and away from windows or vents.
The Town of Huntsville issued an advisory this morning as the freezing rain warning by Environment Canada continues. A prolonged period of freezing rain is forecasted with ice buildup of 5 to 10 mm throughout the day until this evening.
Public Works crews have been performing winter maintenance operations on primary roads and sidewalks and are making their way to secondary routes. Residents and visitors are asked to avoid non-essential travel. The town is continuing to monitor conditions as this weather system moves through the 705.
The OPP is also cautioning motors to drive carefully. Ice buildup and rapid snowfall may lead to reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions. Please allow extra time for travel and plan your route in advance. You can check road conditions: 511on.ca.
