As spring approaches, southern Ontario is bracing for a major ice storm that is expected to bring hazardous conditions across the region. On March 28, 2025, both the City and County of Peterborough declared a significant weather event in anticipation of the storm, which is forecasted to deliver a mix of freezing rain, snow, and strong winds.
Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for the Kawarthas region, effective from the evening of March 28 and lasting until late March 30. The southern part of Peterborough County, including the city itself, is expected to experience ice accumulation between 10 to 20 mm, with some areas potentially seeing more than 25 mm. In contrast, the northern part of the county may receive 5 to 15 mm of ice, alongside possible snow and ice pellet accumulations of 5 to 15 cm.
In a media release, the City of Peterborough stated, "Winter abrasives and de-icers are ready to go, and public works crews are prepared to deploy the city’s 18 plow trucks, 11 sidewalk plows, two graders, seven loaders, and backhoes to help keep roads, sidewalks, and trails clear." Despite these preparations, the city cautioned that ice accumulation may still occur on roads and sidewalks, depending on the storm's severity.
As the storm approaches, Hydro One has alerted residents in northeast, central, and eastern Ontario to prepare for potential power outages. "Customers are encouraged to prepare for power outages," the utility company stated. In the event of outages, residents can report incidents by texting 92887 (WATTS), using the company’s outage map and app, or calling 1-800-434-1235. Hydro One emphasized that outage tools are updated every 10 minutes as crews assess the damage.
The winter storm's impact extends beyond Peterborough. Areas such as Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, London, and Guelph are also under a Special Weather Statement from Environment Canada. In Mississauga and Brampton, significant freezing rain is anticipated to begin late Saturday night and continue into Sunday morning, with possible ice accumulation of 3 to 5 mm. However, some areas could see a prolonged period of freezing rain, with ice accretion amounts between 10 and 20 mm, and over 25 mm possible in certain locations.
Local police have advised the public to avoid all non-essential travel during the storm, particularly from Saturday night through Sunday morning, when road conditions are expected to be most treacherous. Hydro One has warned of potential power outages due to the heavy, wet snow or ice that could strain trees and power lines. Environment Canada echoed these concerns, urging residents to prepare for hazardous driving conditions and possible infrastructure damage.
In Orillia, a freezing rain warning is also in effect, with the city preparing for potentially dangerous conditions. Environment Canada has predicted a prolonged period of freezing rain from the evening of March 29 into the afternoon of March 30, with ice buildup of 10 to 20 mm, and over 25 mm possible. Chris Ferry, the city's fire chief, stated, "With Orillia in the heaviest impact zone, we’re preparing for a dynamic and potentially dangerous weather event." He urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and be prepared for emergencies.
City operations are on standby, with crews actively monitoring conditions and salting roads proactively. The city will communicate any decisions regarding facility closures based on road safety and power availability. While Orillia Transit services are expected to continue operating as scheduled, delays are likely due to icy road conditions.
Residents are reminded to stay clear of hazards and report issues to the appropriate agencies. For downed power lines, they should maintain a distance of at least 10 metres and call 911. Power outages can be reported to Hydro One online, by texting ‘outage’ to 92887 (WATTS), or by calling 1-800-434-1235. For downed trees or damage on local roads, residents can contact the emergency after-hours line at 705-326-4671.
As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to prepare emergency kits that include flashlights, food, water, medications, and blankets. They should also charge their phones and devices in advance, ensure battery backups for sump pumps are operational, and have extra gasoline available for portable generators. Hydro One has emphasized the importance of keeping generators away from indoor spaces to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
As winter makes a late-season comeback, residents are urged to monitor weather updates, prepare for potential power outages, and take extra precautions. While conditions are expected to improve gradually by Monday, March 31, the immediate focus will be on navigating the challenges posed by the incoming storm.
