City Conducting Wellness Checks For Vulnerable Residents

The City of Peterborough Social Services division and Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association (OSARVA) members are checking in on the City’s most vulnerable residents after last weekend’s ice storm that hit the area.

Photo by Aaron Elliott.

The City is actively tracking the power outage status of community housing providers. Prioritizing seniors, residents with disabilities and vulnerable residents, OSARVA members conduct door-to-door wellness checks and deliver food hampers.

“In times like these, the strength of our community shines through. Volunteers from the Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association, City staff, and organizations like Kawartha Food Share have stepped up to ensure that our most vulnerable residents are safe, fed, and supported,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Thank you to everyone who has given their time and energy to help those in need. Let’s all take a moment to check in on our neighbors, lend a hand where we can, and continue to care for one another as we recover from this storm.”

Food hampers are coordinated through Kawartha Food Share and Feed Ontario. Around 500 hamper boxes will be distributed within the next few days according to the City.

OSARVA members have also been providing support on warming buses and at the City’s warming centres, volunteering throughout the day and night alongside City social services staff.

Social Services staff have been operating out of the Healthy Planet Arena, providing referrals to residents looking for warmth, food and a space to charge their devices. The team has also been helping young children stay occupied and entertained while they are at warming centres. 

With power outages continuing, the City encourages residents to check in on neighbours and loved ones.

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Team Rubicon Canada Deploys Volunteers To Aid Peterborough In Ice Storm Recovery

Team Rubicon Canada is sending volunteers to Peterborough to assist residents with downed trees and storm debris on their properties that started on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Team Rubicon Canada.

This is not the first time the group has aided Peterborough. Its members came during the City’s derecho storm in May 2022.

“Our community extends a heartfelt thank you to the volunteers with Team Rubicon Canada for helping residents recover from the damage following the severe ice storm,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Many residents may not be physically able to remove downed trees and storm debris on their property, and it could be a financial hardship. It’s a distressing situation. I’m grateful to the volunteers with Team Rubicon for providing a helping hand through this difficult time.”

Team Rubicon Canada issued the following statement:

“We understand this is a stressful time for many in our community. In the wake of the recent weather event, Team Rubicon Canada is on the ground and ready to assist.

We are a non-profit organization that unites the skills and experience of military veterans and first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams. Our services are provided free of charge to those in need.

If your property has been impacted by downed trees or storm debris, we’re here to help. Our trained volunteers will conduct a damage assessment and evaluate the debris caused by the storm. Based on your individual situation, our teams will respond accordingly—getting to work on debris management and removal at no cost to you.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be honoured to serve you.”

To contact Team Rubicon for assistance, please email request_assistance@teamrubicon.ca clearly indicating the location—whether the address is in the City of Peterborough or Peterborough County—or call 647-473-8655.

As part of the storm response, the city has waived tipping fees for residential yard waste and tree debris at the City-County Landfill, 1260 Bensfort Rd., until April 14.

Regular curbside yard waste collection services began this week.

The City will provide curbside tree debris chipping services for debris that is too large for the regular curbside yard waste collection service once resources are available to divert to that activity. Currently, resources are being directed to the storm response efforts to address hazardous and critical conditions. An update will be provided when the curbside chipping service activity is scheduled.

The City does not maintain trees on private property.

As a result of the ice storm, the City is temporarily waiving the permit requirement until April 14 for residents to remove trees on private property that have been destroyed, destabilized or structurally compromised as a direct result of the ice storm, with the following condition:

• Residents must send email notification to treebylaw@peterborough.ca providing photos, property address, tree species information including diameter, and provide the physiological and structural condition of the tree preferably prior to removing the tree or as soon as possible after removing a tree.

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Riverview Park and Zoo Remains Closed Due to Weather Damage

The Riverview Park and Zoo remains closed to the public due to damage caused by the weekend ice storm and prolonged power outages.

IN CAPTIVITY, RIVER OTTERS HAVE A LIFE EXPECTANCY OF ABOUT 25 YEARS. PHOTO COURTESY OF Riverview Park and Zoo.

Its exhibits, parking lot, playground, disc golf area, and park spaces remain closed until further notice. However, the animals and staff are unharmed from the significant weather event.

“We are very happy to report that all our animals and staff are well and there were no injuries due to the storm,” said Cathy Mitchell, zoo manager and curator. “We have approximately 150 animals under our care, we continue to be proud of the Animal Care and Parks teams who, without interruption, continue to provide top-class care to the animals who live here.”

The weekend’s ice storm damaged several trees, with hanging limbs and downed power lines. The closure will remain in effect as staff work to make necessary repairs and ensure the area is safe.

“The tree damage and damage to property, is worse than we saw during the 2022 Derecho storm,” explained Mitchell. “However, I am very proud of our Riverview Park and Zoo team and grateful for the support of the City of Peterborough, Water Distribution team, for being here to help us tackle the mammoth task of clearing the site of fallen trees and hanging tree limbs.   

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

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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Peterborough and Parts of the County Could Face Potent Spring Ice Storm From Friday to Monday

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for a likely potent spring ice storm that will hit Peterborough, Lakefield and parts of southern Peterborough County from late Friday until Monday.

File Photo.

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.

A break in the freezing rain is expected for most areas late in the day on Saturday into Saturday night before a second round of freezing rain begins.

Environment Canada believes the likelihood of an increase in a widespread, prolonged freezing rain event is occurring over portions of southern Ontario. The swath of maximum ice accretion is still uncertain but confidence is highest for central and eastern Ontario areas between Parry Sound and Kingston. Environment Canada will issue warnings as the event draws nearer.

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City of Peterborough Warns Forecasted Rain May Cause Localized Flooding

The City of Peterborough is preparing for above-freezing temperatures and rain in the forecast, starting on Tuesday afternoon and continuing through Wednesday.

File Photo.

Monday’s forecast shows up to 30 mm of rain is expected over the two days. With the current snow accumulation, the City expects the rain to present a risk of localized flooding.

Crews continue to work to clear the more than 6,000 storm drains across the city. While crews work throughout the city to clear the storm drains, residents who live near a storm drain are asked to clear the drain of snow and ice if they can safely do so to help reduce the risk of localized flooding and pooling water.

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City of Peterborough Declares Significant Weather Event For Wednesday

The City of Peterborough is declaring a Significant Weather Event to alert the community about the major winter storm expected to begin Wednesday evening through to Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The potential for blizzard conditions and snowfall overnight could pose a danger to users of City roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes. Due to the anticipated accumulation volume, the City says snow-clearing operations will take longer than usual to complete.

“Declaring a Significant Weather Event is a way to advise residents, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists that clearing snow and treating surfaces on roads, sidewalks and bike lanes can be expected to be delayed compared to typical levels of service, due to the potential severity of the approaching storm,” said John Czerniawski, Manager, Public Works Operations.

City of Peterborough Public Works staff are tracking weather radar and preparing operations according to forecasts indicating snowfall between 15 and 30 cm overnight on Wednesday, with peak snowfall rates of two to four cm per hour and high wind gusts. Crews are also monitoring a second winter storm system expected on the weekend.

The City is prepared to deploy the full complement of 18 plow trucks, 11 sidewalk plows, two graders, 7 loaders and backhoes and four light sanding units, with winter abrasives and de-icers stocked and staff ready to be deployed.

Crews will focus on arterial and collector roads first, with residential streets, sidewalks and trails to be addressed as resources and conditions allow. Work will continue until the City’s 978 kilometres of roads, 450 km of sidewalks, 39 kilometres of trails and 650 bus stops are cleared. When snow clearing operations on roads, sidewalks, trails and bus stops are complete, snow removal will begin at 250 locations including cul de sacs, dead ends and wide corners. Residents are reminded that there may be delays to this work based on available resources.

Municipalities can declare a Significant Weather Event under the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 239/02, relating to maintaining municipal roads, sidewalks and bike lanes. During a significant weather event, residents are advised to use caution and are reminded that typical winter maintenance service levels for roads may not be met.

Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to adjust their driving based on the conditions. Visibility may be reduced.

• Go slow

• Watch for taillights ahead

• Be prepared to stop

Road users and pedestrians are asked to leave crews the space to safely and effectively clean city streets, sidewalks and trails. Peterborough Transit may adjust service, including designated snow routes, in response to weather conditions. The City thanks residents for their assistance and patience while the snow-clearing work is underway.

Winter parking restrictions are in place and parking is prohibited on all City streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. every night. Additionally, residents are asked not to park on City streets for the duration of the storm to allow for effective snow clearing. Free overnight parking is available in municipal parking garages and surface lots during snowstorms. Drivers can use the parking garage entrance ticket for a free ride home on Peterborough Transit.

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City Reminds Public of Weather Services While Peterborough Is Under a Winter Storm Watch

Peterborough has a winter storm watch in effect for the area with potentially another 20 to 40 centimetres of snow in the forecast for Wednesday evening into Thursday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

According to an Environment Canada monitoring station in the City’s north end, there was a recorded 30 centimetres of snow accumulation as of early this week, compared to three centimetres at the same time last year.

The City of Peterborough reminds residents to stay safe and follow winter parking restrictions to keep routes clear for snow plows.

The City’s Public Works division maintains 978 lane kilometres of road, 450 kilometres of sidewalks, 39 kilometres of trails, and 650 bus stops, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Snow-clearing operations are based on a priority route system.

Roads that see the highest traffic volume, are on transit routes or pass by the hospital are the highest priority for maintenance in winter weather. Arterial and collector roads are cleared first as required by legislated standards.

Once the arterial and collector roads are clear or safe, snow-clearing operations shift to residential or local streets.

Depending on the storm's severity, the time it takes to finish snow clearing can vary. A big storm with snowfall over a long period may mean it takes longer to clear snow from neighbourhood streets.

The City follows the provincial guidelines set under the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 239/02: Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways. The regulations categorize and prioritize roads based on traffic volumes and speed limits – the greater the volume of traffic and the greater the speed limit on the roads, the greater the priority for snow and ice clearing. The guidelines also include standards for the winter maintenance of bike lanes along roads and sidewalks.

From Dec. 1 to April 1, parking is prohibited on all City streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. to allow for quicker snow clearing at a lower cost because crews will not have to return to areas where vehicles were parked. The penalty for a violation is $35.

During a snowstorm, when snow-clearing operations are underway, parking is prohibited on all City streets between midnight and 8 a.m. The penalty for violating this By-Law is $80 and vehicles may be towed.

Free overnight parking is available at all municipal lots, the King Street Parkade and the Simcoe Parking Garage. Those parking overnight at either parking garage can use the gate arm ticket for a free transit trip home.

Residents must clear their driveways and ensure snowbanks do not block sight lines. It is illegal to deposit snow from a driveway or parking lot on a roadway and can result in a ticket under the Highway Traffic Act.

For waste collection in winter when there is snow accumulation, green bins and recycling bins should be placed on cleared driveways or areas on the boulevard, not on top of a snowbank or in the roadway.

There should be two feet of space around the Green Bin to allow the mechanical arm to lift the bin.

Bins should not be placed on the road. Bins on the road can interfere with snow removal operations and block traffic.

When road conditions become slippery during heavy snowfalls, Peterborough Transit may adjust operations and specific bus routes to follow designated snow routes when necessary. If Snow Routes are activated, information will be posted on peterborough.ca, and updates will be provided on Peterborough Transit and City of Peterborough social media accounts.

The following routes have designated Snow Routes:

• Route 4 Weller

• Route 6 Sherbrooke

• Route 8 Monaghan

• Route 11A Water

• Community Bus 22 - Blue

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City of Peterborough Prepared For Approaching Winter Weather Season

The City of Peterborough’s snow-clearing crews are ready to respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to keep the community moving when the winter weather arrives.

Photo by Aaron Elliott.

“The City’s snow clearing operations prioritize safety and efficiency to make sure roads, sidewalks and trails are clear and accessible. No matter what the weather, our crews will be out there working around the clock to make sure residents can safely get to where they need to be,” said Municipal Operations co-chairs Keith Riel and Don Vassiliadis in a joint statement.

The City clears roads, bike lanes and sidewalks based on regulated maintenance standards.

The City’s snow-clearing operations include:

• 18 plow trucks, two graders, seven loaders and backhoes, and four light sanding units to cover 978 kilometres of roads

• 11 sidewalk plows to cover 450 kilometres of sidewalks

• Maintenance to 39 kilometres of trails and 650 bus stops

• Winter service to 27 Municipal Surface Parking Lots

Service levels

Snow-clearing operations are based on a priority route system.

Roads that see the highest traffic volume, are on transit routes or pass by the hospital are the highest priority for maintenance in winter weather. Arterial and collector roads are cleared first as required by legislated standards.

Once the arterial and collector roads are clear or safe, snow-clearing operations shift to residential or local streets.

Depending on the storm's severity, the time it takes to finish snow clearing can vary. A big storm with snowfall over a long period may mean clearing snow from neighbourhood streets takes longer.

The City follows the provincial guidelines set under the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 239/02: Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways. The regulations categorize and prioritize roads based on traffic volumes and speed limits – the greater the volume of traffic and the greater the speed limit on the roads, the greater the priority for snow and ice clearing. The guidelines also include standards for the winter maintenance of bike lanes along roads and sidewalks.

Snow clearing in the downtown

As snow accumulates during the winter, City crews regularly remove snowbanks in the downtown area. To keep the space clear for the snow removal, no parking signs are posted ahead of the snowbank removal work.

Winter parking restrictions

Parking rules change in the snowy season to assist with snow-clearing work. Keeping streets clear overnight allows for better, quicker snow clearing of City streets.

From Dec. 1 to April 1, parking is prohibited on all City streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. The fine for a violation is $25.

During a snowstorm, when snow-clearing operations are underway, no parking is permitted on any City street. The fine is $80 for this violation and vehicles may be towed. Snow-clearing operations typically take place between midnight and 8 a.m.

Free overnight parking is permitted at all municipal parking lots, the King Street Parkade and the Simcoe Parking Garage. Vehicles parked overnight at either garage can obtain a gate arm ticket upon entry to use for a free transit trip home.

Declaring a Significant Weather Event

Municipalities can declare a Significant Weather Event under the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 239/02, relating to the maintenance of municipal roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes. During a Significant Weather Event declaration, all roadways in the municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to snow accumulation.

During a significant weather event, residents are advised to use caution and are reminded that typical winter maintenance service levels for roads may not be met. Motorists are advised to stay home and only use the roads for necessary travel. 

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Otonabee Conservation Issues Watershed Conditions Statement

Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety has been issued for all watercourses within the jurisdiction of Otonabee Conservation, with the exception of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

otonabee conservation logo

With widespread rainfall over the next few days, Otonabee Conservation says high-than-normal water flows and levels that could be dangerous are expected, although flooding is not a concern.

Total local rainfall amounts of 30 to 45 mm are predicted over the next 24 hours with showers becoming heavier at times with the risk of thunderstorms this evening and overnight and into the day on Wednesday.

While flooding is not expected, Otonabee Conservation says the forecasted rainfall will create ponding in low lying areas, roadways and higher-than-normal water levels and flows on all local watercourses.

The alert is in-effect until Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m., unless updated earlier.

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