Freezing rain warning issued with potential power outages and hazardous road conditions

Freezing rain from an ice storm is pictured. (File image)

Residents of Simcoe County and Muskoka are being urged to prepare for hazardous conditions as Environment Canada issued a freezing rain warning for the region on Friday, with significant ice accumulation expected. While some areas may only see rainfall, others will experience significant ice accumulations.

“The Barrie area, Collingwood, Orillia and Muskoka have a weather warning out because of a greater chance of having the freezing rain,” said David Phillips, Environment Canada senior climatologist. “Half a degree difference can make the difference between whether you get snow, rain, freezing rain, ice pellets, or a a mixture of all of the above.”

The weather agency says freezing rain is expected to begin Friday evening and continue into Sunday morning, with ice accretion ranging from five to 10 millimetres. Areas with higher elevations may see freezing rain persist longer due to cooler temperatures, while lower-lying areas could experience a transition to rain on Saturday. The freezing rain is expected to end for all areas by midday Sunday.

Slippery conditions are anticipated on roads, sidewalks and parking lots, and ice buildup may cause tree branches to break. Power outages are also likely.

Several communities declared significant weather events on Friday in anticipation of the freezing rain.

OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt advised motorists who put their ice scraper or snow brush away to have it handy this weekend.

“This is supposed to be a relatively significant system that will certainly affect our driving conditions,” he stated.

Alectra Utilities is advising customers that the storm may lead to power disruptions, particularly in areas where ice-laden tree branches could fall on power lines. The utility company has prepared crews to respond to outages and is urging the public to take precautions.

Alectra reminds residents to ensure mobile devices are charged and to have an emergency kit ready in case of prolonged outages. Kits should include bottled water, canned food, flashlights, fresh batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first-aid kit, medicine, and blankets.

Public Safety Canada also encourages residents to postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve. Those who encounter downed power lines are urged to stay at least 10 metres away and call 911 immediately.

Residents can report power outages to Alectra Utilities by calling 1-833-253-2872 or using the web chat feature.