As spring approaches, a severe ice storm has gripped Ontario, leaving nearly 50,000 residents without power as freezing rain wreaks havoc across the province. The storm, which began early Saturday morning, March 29, 2025, has primarily affected central and eastern Ontario, with Hydro One reporting widespread outages due to tree limbs and branches weighed down by the ice.
Hydro One, the provincial utility company, has been mobilizing crews to restore power. A spokesperson stated, "Stay safe, stay back from downed lines," urging residents to exercise caution during the storm. The ice storm's impact is particularly severe in cottage country, stretching from Tobermory and Parry Sound to Peterborough, where the outages are most concentrated.
Environment Canada has issued freezing rain warnings for multiple areas, including Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Newmarket, and Oshawa. These regions experienced freezing rain early Saturday, with forecasts predicting ice accumulation between five to ten millimeters. In Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton, the freezing rain is expected to begin Saturday night and continue into Sunday morning, with ice buildup estimated at three to five millimeters.
In Orillia, Lagoon City, and Washago, conditions are even more dire, with ice accumulation potentially exceeding 25 millimeters. Environment Canada warns that the freezing rain will likely transition to rain as temperatures hover near zero degrees, but icy conditions will persist longer in higher terrain where temperatures are cooler.
The weather agency advises residents to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. Surfaces, including highways, roads, and walkways, are expected to become "icy, slippery, and hazardous," increasing the risk of accidents.
As the storm continues, communities are bracing for further disruptions. The public library in Orillia has already closed due to power outages, highlighting the storm's far-reaching effects on daily life. Residents are advised to stay informed and prepared as the storm progresses.
In the wake of this winter weather, officials are reminding Ontarians of the importance of safety and preparedness during severe weather events. With the storm expected to taper off by midday Sunday, March 30, residents hope for a swift return to normalcy.
As Ontario navigates this challenging weather, the collaboration between utility companies and emergency services remains crucial. Hydro One's efforts to restore power and ensure safety are ongoing, and residents are encouraged to report outages and stay updated on weather advisories.
With the arrival of spring, Ontarians were not expecting such a harsh reminder of winter's grip. As they face the aftermath of this ice storm, the community's resilience and cooperation will be key in overcoming the challenges ahead.
