Press Release - Seriously, Just Stay Home

You know what folks, the mall will still be there tomorrow. The storm system that passed through our area last night and this morning has left a terrible mess in its wake from downed power lines to fallen trees and icy roads. If you haven't been out yet, the City of Guelph is advising people that there's no need to go out now.  The best course of action is to stay at home, and enjoy a snow day (as it were) till emergency services and Guelph Hydro can get the place sorted out. 

So far it seems like the biggest concern is the trees and power lines. Unlike Toronto, which reportedly once had half a million people without power, Guelph's power problems seem localized to a  few places right now, particularly around the Hanlon between Stone Rd and College St and in the Ward. If you do need to go out, take care and take extra time as needed. Guelph Transit is running, but there are delays, and from what I've heard some buses have some difficulties taking more hilly portions of town, so be aware of delays on that end too.

As for the rest of the details, the city's sent out a rare Sunday press release, which you can read below:

Guelph, ON, December 22, 2013 – The City is asking people to stay indoors, avoid driving, and to be patient as Public Works and Guelph Hydro crews address icy road conditions, downed trees and power outages across the city.

With at least 150  downed branches and trees, several road closures and power outages in the area residents are asked to:

• Stay indoors and avoid driving and walking as road and sidewalks are very slippery
• If residents must travel, they should drive according to road conditions, pack an emergency car kit, view caution tape like a road closure, and treat any non-functioning traffic signals like a four-way stop
• Call 911 to report downed power lines, stay clear and please be patient as Guelph Hydro and City crews respond
• Report downed trees by calling Public Works at 519-837-5628 and please be patient as calls are prioritized
• Move cars off the street, and help clear icy sidewalks and storm drains in residential areas
• Be cautious around waterways and ponds as temperatures hover around freezing

“We know its a busy weekend, and people may be planning to do errands and shopping to prepare for the holidays. We’re working as fast as we can to make sure people can travel through the city safely, but it’s going to take some time,” said Shawn Armstrong, general manager of Emergency Services. “We’re asking for people’s patience, and even their assistance to ensure community safety.”

Guelph Transit service is running according to its regular schedule, but several City facilities are closed:

• Victoria Road Recreation Centre
• Centennial Arena and Pool
• McCrae House
• Guelph Civic Museum
• Evergreen Seniors’ Community Centre
• Sparkles in the Park (Riverside Park)

The following facilities will remain open as long they have power, but residents are encouraged not to venture out unnecessarily.

• West End Community Centre
• Exhibition Arena
• Sleeman Centre
• Market Square
• River Run Centre – 7:30 p.m. performance of Nutcracker to proceed as planned.

The City’s winter maintenance service helps ensure community safety every day, and during this exceptional weather event. City emergency management staff will continue to monitor this situation as it evolves, and provide updates to the community.