THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – The City of Thunder Bay has provided the following update on conditions in the city caused or impacted by the Ice Storm.
Due to continued freezing rain and ice pellets associated with a late season ice storm, City services and facilities have been affected today, and may continue through Thursday afternoon.
Thunder Bay Police Service is strongly recommending that citizens limit travel due to the severe ice storm that is making roadways and walkways hazardous. Environment Canada is anticipating this weather system will continue through Thursday.
Police are stating that even getting the ice removed from their vehicles this morning required Aircraft De-Icing Fluid. Across the city ice build up on vehicles of almost an inch have been reported.
For those who are out driving today, Thunder Bay Police have an online reporting system for accidents.
“We are closely monitoring the weather, and are urging residents to take extra care if they must drive or venture out,” said Mayor Keith Hobbs. “The safety of our residents is of utmost importance during this storm.”
Road sanders have been out since 10 pm Tuesday night, and continue to address the arterial and collector roads. Sanders will remain on the streets overnight.
Sanding of sidewalks on arterial and collector routes started at 2am today (Wednesday) and will continue overnight. Plows have been out on arterial and collector roads to address slush build-up since 8 am this morning and will continue until this evening. They will be called out again at 2 am Thursday to continue.
Heavy icy formations on trees have resulted in several trees coming down within the City. Parks & Open Spaces staff and contract crews are working hard to remove these hazards and make these sites safe. Residents are reminded to stay away from ice-covered limbs as they are falling without warning.
The following City services and facilities are temporarily suspended/closed today:
- Garbage collection, including recycling and Household Hazardous Waste & Recycling Depot
- Landfill closing at 4:30 pm
- City of Thunder Bay operated Child Care Centres including Grace Remus Child Care Centre, Ogden Child Care Centre, Woodcrest Child Care Centre and Algoma Child Care Centre
- 55+ Centre closing at 4:30 pm
- Canada Games Complex, Volunteer and Churchill Pools closing at 3 pm – will reopen at 8 am weather permitting
- Neighbourhood Recreation Program Sites and all Youth Move Sites
- All branches of Thunder Bay Public Library
- The Baggage Building Art Centre
- Terry Fox Visitor Information Centre
- All City Arenas (Current River, Port Arthur, Delany/Legion Track, Grandview and Fort William Gardens)
The following City services and facilities will remain in service/open:
- Thunder Bay Transit (expect delays) Check Nextlift!
- City Hall and administration offices
- Sanding of main arterial roads, side streets and sidewalks
Residents whose garbage collection service was cancelled will receive revised schedules as soon as possible.
“City crews are working hard to manage icy conditions, and staff from across the Corporation are committed to maintaining service for citizens wherever possible,” said Norm Gale, City Manager.
“We continue to closely monitor the storm situation, and will re-evaluate all suspended services and closed facilities for Thursday.”
An update from the City on affected services will be provided as the weather reports are monitored.
Latest Weather Update
Freezing rain warning in effect for:
- City of Thunder Bay
Significant ice build-up due to a long-lasting period of freezing rain is expected or occurring.
Significant ice storm continues today through Thursday.
Freezing rain and ice pellets associated with a late season ice storm will continue today through Thursday afternoon. Significant ice accumulations of 20 to 30 mm are likely by Thursday afternoon. Ice pellet accumulations of 5 to 10 cm are forecast in addition to the freezing rain. Northerly winds will gust to 50 km/h today, which may lead to downed ice covered branches and power lines, resulting in possible widespread and extended power outages.
Precipitation may become lighter this evening, however a return to heavier freezing rain and ice pellets is forecast beginning early Thursday morning. Freezing rain and ice pellets will change to snow Thursday evening.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots will become icy, slippery and extremely hazardous. Beware of branches or electrical wires that could break under the weight of ice. Stay away from fallen power lines. Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.