In a drastic response to the severe weather conditions sweeping through the region, numerous local businesses and services have announced closures and cancellations for December 12, 2024. Residents are encouraged to stay updated and safe as many scheduled events and essential services have been disrupted.

Event Rescheduling

The Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce and Port Elgin Curling Club's highly anticipated ‘Business After 5 and Toy Drive’ event has been rescheduled to Tuesday, December 17 at 5 PM. This decision comes as the community faces significant snow accumulation and blizzard conditions.

Public Service Closures

Public services are also heavily affected. The Bruce County Public Library has closed its facilities, with branch closures affecting the Bookmobile service and locations in Cargill, Chesley, Kincardine, Mildmay, Paisley, Ripley, Tara, Teeswater, and Tiverton. Additionally, all programs at the Southampton Branch have been cancelled.

Business and Community Impact

Numerous other locations are feeling the impact of the weather: the Durham and Chesley branches of Northern Credit Union closed by noon, while the Owen Sound Legion and Scott’s Industrial followed suit. The YMCA of Owen Sound also suspended its cardiac rehab program for the day.

Public Facility Closures

In the town of Hanover, public facilities such as the Civic Centre and P & H Centre are closed, but the Hanover/Walkerton Landfill Site remains operational. Meanwhile, the Home Sleep Care Owen Sound facility is curtailing services by closing for the day.

Meals on Wheels and Adult Programs

Meals on Wheels deliveries across Grey Bruce have been called off, and all adult day programs run by HCSS are also shut down due to the inclement weather. Schools and childcare centers, including Le Jardin des Decouvertes and BVO Preschool, announced closures, adding to the growing list of impacted services.

Waste Collection Changes

Weather conditions have prompted changes to scheduled waste collection, with certain routes in Kincardine and surrounding areas delayed. Residents can expect missed garbage collection to be rescheduled for December 13.

Health Services Suspension

Moreover, several health services have been affected, including the South Bruce Grey Health Centre, which will be cancelling routine outpatient appointments. Patients are encouraged to check for updates and reschedule as necessary.

Community Events Cancellation

The Ontario Breast Screening Program and various community health programs also faced suspensions. As a result of the extreme conditions, many local businesses adjusted their hours, including the closure of the Grey County Administration Building at noon. Others, including the Galaxy Cinemas, have halted operations today but expect to resume after the storm.

Local Sports and Social Events

Additionally, school and community events are experiencing changes, with the Knights of Meaford's home game against Ville Marie being cancelled, and the Baker Street Christmas Party postponed to next Thursday.

As the storm continues to affect daily life, the citizens of Grey Bruce are reminded to prioritize safety by staying indoors and following any updates on local services. This severe weather serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with winter in Ontario.

Stay tuned for more updates regarding closures and rescheduled events as the situation develops.