Residents Encouraged to Prepare For Significant Freezing Rain, Risk Of Power Outages
- Ward 5 Staff
- 19 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Environment Canada has issued a significant freezing rain event warning, expected to begin either tonight (March 10) or early Wednesday morning (March 11) and lasting through Wednesday or Wednesday night. It may come with an ice buildup of 10 to 20 mm.
Given the potential for significant ice buildup, Hydro Ottawa says there is a risk of downed tree branches and localized power outages. They’re encouraging residents to be prepared in case of interruptions and to have supplies on hand that would allow them to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours, if needed.
● Gather items for an emergency kit that includes things like: medicine, first aid supplies,
flashlights, new batteries, a battery-operated radio, a manual can opener, canned food, bottled water, blankets, pet food, and important documents and telephone numbers.
● Charge mobile devices and laptops.
● For those requiring an uninterrupted supply of power for specialized medical equipment, ensure you have a back-up supply in place or a plan to relocate to a facility that can assist you.
● For those with mobile disabilities who live in a building that requires the use of an elevator, be sure to inform the building’s management that you may need assistance.
Hydro Ottawa links to resources and guidance on:
If outages occur, residents are advised to visit Hydro Ottawa's Outage Map, which is updated every 15 minutes as new information is available.
Hydro Ottawa relies on customers to help pinpoint the cause of an outage. You can report an outage or safety concern directly to them by:
● Through the Hydro Ottawa app;
● Texting “OUT” to PWROUT (797688); or
● Calling the 24/7 outage hotline at 613-738-0188
Keep an eye on the Councillor's website (ClarkeKelly.ca) and social media for updates on any road closures or areas of concern.
