As of Sunday morning, utility providers’ outage maps show thousands of people are still without power throughout Muskoka.
The recent storm that ripped through the area also left hundreds of people stranded on the highway. As of this morning (Dec. 1), the OPP says the highway remains closed and vehicles are still being removed.
UPDATE 5: #Hwy11 is still closed as emergency services continue to work on removing vehicles.@Gateway2Muskoka has been experiencing a power outage, which is impacting a significant number of residents.
Thank you for your patience as we continue our efforts.^bh
— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) December 1, 2024
In Gravenhurst, Mayor Heidi Lorenz has declared a state of emergency, officially activating the town’s Emergency Operations Centre.
Gravenhurst officials share key factors for the public to know:
- Emergency services are limited and, in some instances, might not be able to respond.
- Town snowplow crews and contractors continue to clear roads, but this work is limited and slow because of obstacles such as downed trees and limbs, downed power lines, and vehicles that are blocking routes.
- The town is asking people to stay home. Please avoid travel by foot or car.
- Please avoid situations that put your home or shelter location at risk (for example makeshift fires and unattended candles).
- One of the biggest challenges now is the town’s inability to move vehicles and equipment to other areas of the municipality using provincial Highway 11. We are working with the province to get the highway clear of snow.
- The town is working with neighbouring municipalities to bring in their resources to assist with snow cleanup around the community.
- If you are in an emergency and require assistance, dial 9-1-1.
Officials say to watch the town’s website and social media channels for updates, with one scheduled for 4:00 p.m. today.
Jeff Lehman, District Chair, says despite the challenges, Muskoka is showing its strength and community spirit.
“Neighbours helping neighbours,” says Lehman. “Speaking of which, both County of Simcoe and York Region have sent equipment to help. Big shout out to them.”
Lehman says Gravenhust has been hit hard and HWY 11 remains closed (as of 12:30 p.m.).
“Everyone needs to stay home to allow these crews to dig us out,” he adds. “I can’t say enough about the emergency services, power crews, and plow and tow operators going strong for a third straight day.”
Muskoka Lakes Fire Department says after being requested by the OPP on Saturday, they sent three side-by-sides, a command unit and more, and worked alongside other local fire departments, paramedics and officers to ferry people to warming centres, do welfare checks, water and feed horses and more.
Officials are calling it a “superb coordinated effort by all involved”, adding over 300 vehicles were guided off of HWY 11 , and over 70 people moved to warming centres while their vehicles were towed.
The Town of Bracebridge says crews were out early to tackle the snow that fell overnight. Officials say there are several road closures in place, which presents a challenge, adding the Town is grateful to be working with external partners to help with removal efforts.
The Town is asking all non-essential travel be limited today and to not park vehicles on the road.
