City of Peterborough Declares Significant Weather Event Ahead of Weekend Ice Storm

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The City of Peterborough has declared a significant weather event, effective immediately, in advance of the ice storm expected this weekend.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City is actively monitoring weather forecasts and conditions. Winter abrasives and de-icers are ready to go, and Public Works crews are ready 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.

Crews will work throughout the weekend to keep roads clear; however, depending on the storm's severity, ice accumulation may still occur on roads, sidewalks, and parking lots.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the region, forecasting a potent spring storm that will begin late Friday and last until Monday.

Significant ice accumulation can result from freezing rain, with general amounts of five to 15 mm and amounts in excess of 20 mm possible. Environment Canada warns that utility outages, slippery surfaces, and broken tree branches from ice build-up are a possibility.

City forestry crews are standing by, ready to clear fallen branches and trees that may become an issue.

To report a downed branch or tree on City property please call Public Works at 705-745-1386. This line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Due to ice accumulation, there is potential for power outages. Residents should be prepared if an extreme weather event results in a power outage.

Having an Emergency Preparedness kit on hand is essential for staying safe.

Emergency Preparedness Kits should include:

  • Battery-powered or windup flashlight

  • Battery-powered or windup radio

  • First Aid Kit

  • Portable external battery charger for cellphones, laptops, etc.

  • Water (Two litres per person per day)

  • Canned or dried food that won’t spoil

  • Manual can opener

  • Extra batteries for your flashlight or radio

  • Cash- if there is an extended power outage, many stores may only be able to accept cash as a form of payment

  • Blankets

  • Candles and matches

  • A list of emergency numbers and important contacts

Residents are encouraged to charge devices in advance of a weather event.

Motorists should also ensure enough fuel in their vehicles before the storm, as local gas stations may also lose power.

Residents should ensure that downspouts are directing rain away from the foundations of buildings. 

Residents can help by clearing debris away from the storm sewer drains near their property if possible.

Due to the volume of water moving through local waterways, residents are reminded to stay a safe distance from the water’s edge as banks can be slippery and unstable.

Otonabee Conservation has issued a Flood Warning for all watercourses in our region. Residents are advised to monitor conditions and take appropriate action to protect themselves and their property from flooding.

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