In the aftermath of a brutal freezing rain and ice storm that has left a significant mark across Ontario, Orillia faces an ongoing power crisis. Over a week later, around 69,000 customers of Hydro One are still grappling with power outages, and just slightly more than 2,000 of those are in Orillia itself.

As the frigid storm subsided, neighboring townships have reported approximately 11,000 Hydro One customers still in the dark, adding to the urgent need for restoration. Orillia's Mayor, Don McIsaac, reported that 30 dedicated hydro workers are actively focusing on restoring power to specific streets, including June Drive, Gerald Street, Lawrence Avenue, Martin Street, and Rosslyn Road. Authorities have set a hopeful target for these areas to have their electricity back by the end of the day.

To date, Hydro One has successfully re-energized over 42,000 properties within Orillia, and local crews have repaired or replaced 312 broken poles. A whopping 600 staff members are currently laboring to restore electricity across Orillia and the surrounding Township of Oro-Medonte.

Provincially, more than 4,800 crew members from Hydro One and its partners are on the ground working tirelessly to restore power. However, local flooding remains a significant hazard in some regions, which could dampen restoration efforts, particularly on roads affected by the storm.

Residents of the hardest-hit areas should prepare for potential delays in the restoration process, especially in remote locations where access depends on water transport, impacting many seasonal properties. Hydro One also highlighted concerns raised by local emergency services regarding the dangers of carbon monoxide due to improper use of generators, stoves, and grills during outages. They urge residents to use such equipment safely outdoors and to shut off appliances that were in use when the power failed.

Moreover, if residents experience flooding that approaches electrical outlets, they are advised to call Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235 to ensure power is safely turned off. This is crucial, as water and electricity are a dangerous combination that could lead to severe safety risks.

To assist in the recovery from the storm, Orillia officials have announced that residents will not require garbage tags for refuse collection from April 7 to April 19. This initiative is to support those dealing with storm-related debris, and curbside collection will occur throughout this period. Residents are encouraged to utilize green bins for organic waste while being informed about key guidelines for waste disposal during this time.

The waste diversion site in Orillia is experiencing high traffic as community members work to clean up after the ice storm. City officials have noted that the busiest times for drop-offs occur early in the morning and late in the afternoon, prompting suggestions for residents to visit outside of peak hours if possible.

In an effort to alleviate the congestion, a temporary storm debris drop-off site has been established at Kitchener Park, available during regular hours. Residents are also reminded to cooperate with staff directives when dropping off materials.

As recovery efforts continue, local authorities emphasize the importance of community safety and communication. The ordeal serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities posed by extreme weather and the resilience of communities in overcoming such challenges. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.