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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough Expected to Get Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms In Special Weather Statement

Peterborough, Lakefield and Southern Peterborough County are expected to get heavy rain in slow-moving thunderstorms on Friday according to Environment Canada.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

Torrential downpours are expected with rainfall amounts of 30 to 60 mm but could even be higher. The rainfall is expected to continue into this evening.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads according to Environment Canada. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough and the Kawarthas Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch For July 24

Peterborough, Lakefield and southern Peterborough County are under a severe thunderstorm watch that began Wednesday morning through until the evening.

Photo courtesy of Jay Callaghan.

Environment Canada says conditions are favourable for developing severe thunderstorms. These may produce strong wind gusts up to 90 km/h, torrential downpours with 50 mm falling within an hour, nickel- to Toonie-sized hail, and heavy rain.

These conditions can cause significant damage. Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

Emergency Management Ontario recommends taking cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Go indoors if you hear thunder roar.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough Could See Heavy Rainfall Wednesday and Thursday From Hurricane Beryl Remnants

Peterborough and parts of the County could receive heavy rainfall due to the remnants of Hurricane Beryl on Wednesday and Thursday according to Environment Canada.

Photo courtesy of Dave Ellis.

Peterborough, Lakefield and southern parts of the County are the potential affected areas.

Rainfall is expected to begin either late Tuesday night or Wednesday and continue into Thursday.

Torrential downpours are estimated to bring 20 to 40 mm per hour at times while localized rainfall totals possibly well over 50 mm.

Although confidence in the weather system's exact track is low, these systems have produced very high rainfall rates in torrential downpours in the past says Environment Canada.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.