Ontario Mobilizes Emergency Support Following Ice Storm Damage

Hydro crews, Ontario Corps, and first responders deployed across hardest-hit regions

TORONTO – The Ontario government is taking swift action to support communities across the province in the wake of a devastating ice storm that downed power lines, damaged critical infrastructure, and disrupted daily life for thousands.

Emergency personnel and Ontario Corps volunteers have been deployed to affected areas, where they are clearing debris, restoring essential services, and checking on vulnerable residents. As of April 2, more than 2,000 wellness checks have been completed, with food, water, and hygiene supplies also being distributed.

“Getting boots on the ground quickly can make all the difference to ensure life-saving actions are taken,” said Jill Dunlop, Ontario’s Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, in a government statement. She praised the work of first responders, hydro crews, and volunteers who are helping to stabilize conditions on the ground.

From Orillia to Peterborough and all surrounding areas, we now have 4,000 hydro workers from across the province and beyond working hard to safely restore power to our province.

Orillia is home to Hydro One’s Regional Area Command Centre where we toured with Premier @FordNation… pic.twitter.com/nbVrMMw9xQ

— Jill Dunlop (@JillDunlop1) April 5, 2025

Among the reported provincial relief efforts:

• Over 2,000 wellness checks conducted in person and by phone

• Over 100 hygiene kits distributed

• Over 500 meals and food hampers delivered

• Over 1,500 residents accessed municipal evacuation sites

• More than 600 volunteer hours contributed

With forecasts calling for more freezing rain in parts of the province, officials are urging residents to prepare emergency kits, stay away from downed power lines, and check road conditions at ontario.ca/511.

Municipalities requiring provincial aid are advised to contact the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, which remains active around the clock to coordinate support and deploy resources as needed.

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