THUNDER BAY – Weather Conditions across Northwestern and Northern Ontario are expected to see increased snow and blowing snow over the next thirty-six hours.
For the far north, Attawapiskat is under a Blizzard Warning. Blizzard conditions with near zero visibility in snow and blowing snow expected in the community for Sunday afternoon and evening.
In Attawapiskat, the forecast is, for snow, heavy at times, is forecast to begin after midnight Saturday night and taper off late Sunday night. Total snowfall amounts of 15 to 30 cm are likely. Meanwhile, northerly wind gusts of 60 to 80 km/h are expected Sunday afternoon through early Monday morning. The combination of falling snow and strong gusty winds will result in blizzard conditions with widespread near zero visibility Sunday afternoon and evening.
For the Kenora region, Environment Canada has issued weather alerts. Blowing snow advisories are in effect for the western parts of the province.
Possible Power Outages
Synergy North has experienced some outages on the north side of Thunder Bay earlier today. So far Saturday night there are no reported outages.
Hydro One’s outage prediction tool is forecasting that the incoming wind storm anticipated to start Sunday morning could cause hundreds of outages across southern, central and eastern Ontario. In anticipation, Hydro One is preparing its damage assessors along with lines and forestry crews to respond to any outages and emergencies that may occur from the damage that may be caused due to sustained high winds.
Hydro One’s crews are being moved into position to assess damage and quickly and safely restore power to affected customers. Estimated time of restoration will be determined for each outage once damage has been assessed. Our outage tools will be updated every 10 minutes as information comes in from the crews on-site.
Hydro One prioritizes emergencies and restoration in such a way that brings power back to the largest number of customers in the shortest period of time.
Stay safe during a power outage
If the power system in your area is affected by bad weather, be sure to stay clear of any fallen power lines. If you spot a fallen line, keep at least 10 metres back, even if it does not appear to be live. Report it to the police and call Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235.
Tracking power outages
For outage information and updates, visit Hydro One’s new outage map or download the free mobile app. Customers can also sign up in advance for text or email notifications. These free tools allow customers to check the status of power outages anywhere in Hydro One’s service area and receive helpful tips and news. Sign up at www.hydroone.com/outages.
Household preparedness
It is critical to ensure that you and your family are of the prepared in case of an extended power outage caused by severe weather.
An emergency preparedness kit should include:
- Water (recommend 2L per person/day)
- Canned or dried food that won’t spoil
- A manual can opener
- Cash
- Windup or battery powered flashlight
- Windup or battery powered radio
- Extra batteries for your flashlight and radio
- Any medical items you require
- Blankets
- Candles and matches. Remember to never leave a burning candle unattended.
- First aid kit
- Hydro One’s emergency power outage hotline number – 1-800-434-1235. Ensure you have at least one corded phone at home; a cordless phone will not work in a power outage.
- Fully charged cell-phone and portable power bank chargers
Keep your emergency kit in a backpack and make sure everyone in your home knows where to find it.
