OPP And Other First Responders Response to Ongoing Snow Event Impacting Central Ontario
Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Central Region continue to provide an all-hands-on-deck response to the ongoing snow event, impacting much of central Ontario.< /p>
Numerous roads remain closed and impassable in the impacted area, including Highway 11 which will remain closed in both directions between Highway 60 in Huntsville and West Street in Orillia. Other sections of Highway 11 are also closed at this time, and many other roads in the area are closed or not driveable.
Tractor trailers are asked to use Highway 35 in the meantime as Highway 11 is impassable.
Please monitor 511on.ca for updated road conditions.
OPP officers, paramedics, and firefighters have been using snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles to check on stranded motorists. Many of those who wanted to leave their vehicles were transported to shelters, including the Gravenhurst Centennial Centre.
We understand it can be challenging to find fuel in the area as many gas stations have been impacted by ongoing power outages or potential supply issues as a result of the snow. If you are low on fuel, and still moving, seriously consider finding a safe place to park until you are able to safely get to a gas station or someone can bring fuel to you.
Anyone who finds themselves stranded is advised to stay with their vehicle and not ven ture out on foot. Pedestrians could become lost or face hazards posed by snow removal equipment.
The OPP continues to advise anyone in the impacted areas to stay off the roads. Snow removal crews are working hard to keep up with the snowfall. Having additional vehicles on the roads puts the occupants at risk and adds additional challenges for snow removal.
If you are in a life-threatening situation, call 9-1-1. Please call the OPP non-emergency number, 1-888-310-1122 for all other matters. Our Communications Centres have been flooded with calls, so please be patient and ensure the 9-1-1 lines are used only for life-threatening matters. Once again, please refer to 511on.ca/ for road condition updates.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love