A devastating ice storm over the weekend has prompted multiple school districts to close their doors, affecting countless students and families across central and eastern Ontario. This weather system has not only brought treacherous conditions but has also knocked out power for hundreds of thousands of residents, leaving many in the dark and cold.

According to Hydro One, it could take several days for all areas to have their power restored. As communities band together to tackle the aftermath, here's what you need to know about current school closures:

Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

All schools and child care centres are closed on Monday, March 31.

Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board

All facilities, including the Catholic Education Centre, are closed as of March 31.

Simcoe County District School Board

All schools are closed on Monday, March 31, along with all before and after school programs.

Each school board promises to provide updates as they come through, urging families to remain informed.

In response to this natural disaster, the City of Peterborough, Orillia, and the Township of Brock have declared a state of emergency. This drastic measure underscores the severity of the situation, as the freezing rainstorm has led to fallen trees and power outages affecting tens of thousands of residents. Recovery operations are expected to take a considerable amount of time, and officials are working around the clock to restore normalcy.

Social media is lighting up with videos capturing the chaos in Orillia, with some users describing the scene as a "war zone" due to the extensive damage inflicted by the ice.

Both the City of Barrie and the District of Muskoka have declared a Significant Weather Event, advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel. A statement from Muskoka emphasizes the widespread damage from the heavy ice accumulation, warning that many roads are either closed or reduced to one lane because of fallen trees and utility lines. Emergency crews are actively responding to new hazards, and the risk of encountering downed trees and power lines remains high.

Parents are urged to keep close tabs on updates from their local school boards and to prioritize safety during this tumultuous period. With winter storms showcasing their ferocity, it’s crucial to be prepared as communities work toward recovery. Stay safe, stay informed!