Freezing Rainstorm Forces Peterborough to Declare State of Emergency

Peterborough, Ontario – The City of Peterborough has officially declared a state of emergency following a powerful freezing rainstorm that wreaked havoc across the region. The severe weather caused trees to fall, damaged power lines, and left tens of thousands of residents without electricity. As city officials rush to manage the impact, recovery is expected to take several days, if not longer.

According to the city's emergency statement, the storm caused widespread destruction, primarily due to ice accumulation on trees and power lines. The ice weighed down branches, causing them to snap and damage utility infrastructure. This not only led to mass power outages but also created dangerous conditions for residents trying to travel or navigate their neighborhoods.

City officials are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel and stay home whenever possible. "The ice accumulation is knocking down power lines, trees, and tree limbs, causing power outages and unsafe conditions," officials said in a statement issued Sunday.

The Peterborough Public Works department, which is responsible for roads and sidewalks, has been overwhelmed with emergency calls. In a span of 24 hours, over 1,000 calls were received for fallen trees, blocked roads, and damaged infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Peterborough Fire Services have responded to approximately 700 storm-related calls during the same period. Due to these hazardous conditions, the city has temporarily closed all municipal parks until further notice.

Massive Power Outages Across Ontario

The freezing rainstorm did not only affect Peterborough. More than 200,000 people across central and eastern Ontario were reported to be without power due to the same weather system. Hydro One, the utility provider, has been working tirelessly to restore service, though it could take days before power is fully restored to everyone impacted.

Warming Centres Opened for Public

Recognizing the need for warmth and shelter, the City of Peterborough has opened multiple reception centers to support those affected by the storm:

Healthy Planet Arena, located at 911 Monaghan Rd., is open from 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 30 to 8 a.m. on Monday, March 31. This facility is available overnight for residents needing emergency shelter.

Miskin Law Community Complex, 271 Lansdowne St. W., is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, March 30.

Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, 775 Brealey Dr., is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, March 30. Crews are working to restore its backup generator to ensure full functionality.

City officials are encouraging people without power or heat to visit these warming centers, especially families with young children, seniors, and vulnerable individuals.

City Leaders Thank Emergency Workers

Mayor Jeff Leal issued a public statement thanking utility and public works crews who have been working around the clock to restore essential services and clean up after the storm.

“Thank you to Hydro One crews and our Public Works team that has been working around the clock throughout this significant weather event,” Leal said. He added, “I’m asking residents to avoid unnecessary travel as crews work to address fallen trees and power lines. Stay safe. Call friends and loved ones to check on them.”

The mayor also acknowledged that while crews are making progress, cleanup and power restoration will take time. “Cleaning up from this storm may take several days,” he said.

Stay Safe & Informed

Residents are advised to:

• Stay indoors unless travel is essential
• Watch for city updates on park reopenings and warming center hours
• Check on neighbors, especially those living alone
• Charge phones and conserve battery if power is out

As Peterborough navigates this emergency, community cooperation and patience will play a crucial role in ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being.

References:

1:CityNewsEverywhere: https://toronto.citynews.ca/2025/03/30/city-of-peterborough-declares-state-of-emergency-after-freezing-rainstorm/