THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – The freezing rain and ice storm conditions are predicted to continue through Thursday afternoon.
This will continue to impact hydro for residents in the City of Thunder Bay. Thunder Bay Hydro has brought in additional resources today to keep up with the demand as trees and power lines connect and power outages happen.
The conditions are expected to continue well into Thursday afternoon in the city, with Environment Canada predicting a return to heavier freezing rain and ice pellets starting early on Thursday morning.
Thunder Bay Police are asking people to stay off the roads unless absolutely needed. The Ontario Provincial Police are echoing that advice for highway travel.
While many city services and facilities were closed today, Thunder Bay Transit continues to operate. Some buses have been delayed as they have had to maneuver through the ice and snow.
Across the city and region a number of events have been cancelled.
The weather has impacted travel by air as well.
Developing as conditions dictate.
Best advice is to stay home, enjoy the company of family and stay safe.
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 through Thursday.
Freezing rain and ice pellets are expected to become light and patchy this evening. However a return to heavier freezing rain and ice pellets is forecast beginning early Thursday morning and will likely change to snow Thursday evening.
Total ice accumulations of 20 to 30 mm are expected by late Thursday. Northerly winds gusting to 50 km/h will continue tonight but ease somewhat on Thursday. Ice-laden trees and limbs on power lines may result in possible widespread and extended power outages.
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.
