The City of Orillia’s Municipal Emergency Control Group continues to respond to the impacts of the ice storm, working around the clock to coordinate the emergency response and ensure public safety.
The City has been liaising with multiple agencies to establish community supports, stabilize and maintain critical infrastructure and address hazardous conditions by blocking unsafe roadways and clearing priority areas. Efforts have also included preparing and opening the Relief Centre, working closely with Emergency Management Ontario and the County of Simcoe Emergency Management to coordinate response efforts and liaise with Hydro One to support power restoration plans.
Conditions continue to evolve. The City will continue to monitor impacts and provide timely updates on service disruptions, road conditions, and public safety through orillia.ca and the City’s official social media channels.
Latest News
Information and Support Helpline - 211
The City of Orillia is working with 211 Ontario to help residents access up-to-date information and available support resources during the ongoing emergency. Residents are encouraged to call 211 for non-emergency inquiries related to shelter, food access, wellness checks, volunteer opportunities, and other community services. 211 is available 24/7 and connects callers with trained professionals who can guide them to the appropriate local supports.
Relief Centre
Please note that the Relief Centre at the Orillia Recreation Centre will close effective Monday, April 7 at 6 p.m. Read the full news release.
Support Services Remain Available:
The City has been working closely with community partners to arrange alternative supports for those who have been spending the night at the Relief Centre, ensuring a safe and smooth transition as the facility closes.
- Wellness Checks: If you or someone you know needs extra support, please call 211 to request a wellness check.
- Warmth and Charging: Rotary Place remains open as a charging station, and residents are welcome to visit other City of Orillia facilities during regular hours to warm up.
- The Lighthouse Shelter has resumed regular operations, including community programs such as bagged lunch distribution. Visit orillialighthouse.ca or call 705-329-2265 for details.
- Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital has resumed regular operations. Please visit osmh.on.ca or call 705-325-2201 to learn more about hospital operations and services.
- Food Services: Residents who require help with food access can contact the Sharing Place Food Centre at 705-327-4273 or visit sharingplaceorillia.org for more information.
Medical Assistance
The Couchiching Ontario Health Team (COHT) partners have set up a table to support Orillia residents at the Orillia Relief Centre, located at the Orillia Recreation Centre (255 West St. S.).
The COHT will be able to provide support to community members seeking:
- Navigation support to services they need.
- Directly book patients in to see a Nurse Practitioner or Mental Health Crisis Counsellor if they need to do so.
- Meet with Relief Centre visitors to ensure they can connect with the health team onsite.
- Through a partnership with Helping Hands, coordinate medication delivery or pick up for patients that need support with a pharmacy.
Reporting Information
The City’s emergency phone lines are overwhelmed. Please do not report downed trees unless it is life-threatening. For all other reports, wait until conditions improve.
To report downed trees that are not life-threatening, please contact the Municipal Operations Centre at 705-326-4585. Calls will be logged and addressed based on priority. Please be patient. Only call 911 in emergency or life-threatening situations.
Power restoration is being lead by Hydro One. To report or check on power outages, contact Hydro One:
Please report sewer backups or related issues to the City immediately by calling 705-329-7249.
Residential Property Brush Pick Up
City crews have begun residential brush collection. This will be a substantial undertaking and will take significant time to complete.
To assist in safe and efficient collection, residents must place downed tree brush and branches:
- On their front property, behind the sidewalk and off the roadway.
- Do not block sidewalks, roads, storm drains, or fire hydrants or hydro infrastructure.
City crews and contractors will be moving through the City in the coming days and weeks to chip and remove this brush material. Please do not mix any other materials in with the set out brush/branches.
For more information on regular curbside pick-up, please scroll to City Service Impacts.
Residents are encouraged to contact a landscape or tree contractor of their choice and should also consult their insurance provider to review their coverage and policy details. Please be wary of scammers taking advantage of residents in a time of crisis. To protect yourself, ensure you gather proper information about the company, verify their legitimacy, and avoid paying in full upfront.
The City of Orillia is waiving fees for disposal of storm-related debris at the Waste Diversion Site effective immediately. This includes brush, tree wood, stumps, wood chips, impacted drywall, spoiled food and water-damaged material. Staff will be monitoring loads coming in. Please ensure these are essential loads only (not household hazardous waste or electronics) and are materials that can’t wait until next week’s curbside pickup. Please expect delays and be patient while attending the Waste Diversion Site.
The City has received inquiries regarding burning brush on their property. Residents cannot burn brush on their property and must follow the Open-Air Burning By-law, which only allows for the burning of recreational fires using proper cut wood.
If you begin yard cleanup, exercise extreme caution. Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital is experiencing increased emergency room visits due to injuries from yard clean-up incidents. Residents are encouraged to hire a professional, if at all possible, especially the elderly. Hazards such as downed wires, sharp debris, and unstable branches may not be visible and can pose serious risks. Always treat all wires as live and keep a safe distance. Do not place debris, branches, or trees on roads or boulevards. This obstructs emergency response and delays cleanup efforts.
Water
The City’s drinking water is safe. While the City of Orillia responded to an issue at the Wastewater Treatment Centre, we want to reassure all residents that this incident did not affect the City’s drinking water supply. This was a wastewater system issue, related to sewage and drainage, not the drinking water system. The municipal drinking water remains safe and fully operational. Residents can continue to:
• Drink tap water
• Bathe and shower
• Use water for cooking, handwashing, and daily needs
There is no boil water advisory in effect, and no risk to the safety of the City’s drinking water.
A water filling station will be available in the parking lot at J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park (450 Atherley Rd.) to support those affected by ongoing power outages. This resource is available to residents of Orillia and surrounding communities who may be without access to water. The City of Orillia extends sincere thanks to the Town of Midland for their support and assistance in making this service available during the emergency response. Please bring your own containers for water collection. The station will remain available 24/7 until further notice.
Charging Facility
Rotary Place, located at 100 University Ave., is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily for access to power to charge devices.
Hydro Restoration
If your home or business has sustained electrical damage, ensure repairs are done safely by hiring a licensed electrician.
Damages to your home's electrical system may have to be fixed before the utility can reconnect power. If your electrical mast is pulled away from the wall, broken, or detached, follow this process from the Electrical Safety Authority.
Licensed Electricians in the Barrie & Orillia Area
City Service Impacts
The Waste Diversion Site is open. Waste Collection is suspended for the week of March 31 to April 4. Set materials out the following week.
No garbage tags:
Orillia residents will not need to tag their garbage between Monday, April 7 and Saturday, April 19. Spoiled food waste (still in packaging) will be permitted in the curbside garbage for this timeframe only. Residents are still encouraged to sort their food waste into their green bins as much as possible.
- There is no bag limit.
- Clear bags only.
- Residents can double bag food waste if they are not putting it in the compost.
- Please follow the weight limit of 20 kg or 44 lbs per bag or container of garbage.
- Please keep your regular curbside waste separate from the curbside brush for pick up.
The City of Orillia is waiving fees for disposal of storm-related debris at the Waste Diversion Site effective immediately. This includes brush, tree wood, stumps, wood chips, impacted drywall, spoiled food and water-damaged material. Staff will be monitoring loads coming in. Please ensure these are essential loads only (not household hazardous waste or electronics) and are materials that can’t wait until next week’s curbside pickup. Please expect delays and be patient while attending the Waste Diversion Site.
- The Waste Diversion Site will be open for extended hours to accommodate essential loads of storm brush and storm-related waste:
- Brush, tree wood, stumps, wood chips
- Impacted drywall, spoiled food, water-damaged material
- Loads will be monitored to ensure essential materials only (no household hazardous waste or electronics). Delays should be expected.
- Please note that this is for the City’s Waste Diversion Site only and does not apply to Mid-Ontario. If you have any questions about what qualifies, please contact the Waste Diversion Site at 705-325-3522.
- Please ensure that all debris is secure in your vehicle or trailer when travelling to the Waste Diversion Site.
Temporary Waste Diversion Site hours:
- Saturday and Sunday (April 5 and 6) - 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Monday to Friday (April 7-11) - 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday (April 12-13) - 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Monday to Friday (April 14-18) - 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Waste Diversion Site fees waived:
The City is waiving fees for the disposal of storm-related debris at the Waste Diversion Site until April 26, 2025. Accepted items include:
- Garbage brought to the Waste Diversion Site must be loose or in clear bags. Black bags must be emptied to ensure it is storm related debris.
- Essential loads only. Loads to Waste Diversion Site are limited to storm brush, spoiled food waste, storm-related items and debris.
- Curbside brush pickup and wood chipping is ongoing. Please do not place brush or wood in culverts. This can cause pooling and flooding. Please place downed tree brush and branches on your front property, behind the sidewalk and off the roadway. Do not block sidewalks, roads, storm drains, fire hydrants, or hydro infrastructure. Please do not mix brush with other materials. Regular curbside set-out requirements for brush do not apply for this special pickup.
April 6, 2025: Help Prevent Sewer Backups
We understand many sump pumps are running non-stop due to the heavy rain and high water table — but it’s critical that sump pump water is NOT discharged into the sanitary sewer system.
Doing so overwhelms the system and contributes to over-capacity operations at the Wastewater Treatment Centre, which can lead to requirements to conserve wastewater (limited flushing, dishwasher operation, laundry) and sewer backups in homes and across the network.
Please discharge sump pump water onto your lawn or another safe outdoor area.
Thank you for doing your part to protect our infrastructure during this challenging time.
April 5, 2025: Operations at the Wastewater Treatment Centre have now stabilized. A huge thank you to residents who conserved and reduced their usage. We are now in a position where wastewater usage can return to normal. Flush, do laundry, shower and run your dishwashers/do dishes as usual!
We truly appreciate your patience and efforts during this challenging time.
April 4, 2025: While full operations have not yet resumed at the Wastewater Treatment Centre, conditions are stabilizing. The City’s primary digester is now operational, and staff continue to closely monitor wastewater levels. The components of the system that were on bypass are no longer on bypass.
The City of Orillia responded to the impacts of a fire that occurred this week at the Orillia Wastewater Treatment Centre, which significantly impacted operations at the facility. Additionally, heavy rains of more than 50 mm in a short period of time also strained the system.
The City’s Drinking Water is Safe
We want to reassure all residents that this incident does not affect the City’s drinking water supply. This is a wastewater system issue, related to sewage and drainage, not the drinking water system. The municipal drinking water remains safe and fully operational. Residents can continue to:
• Drink tap water
• Bathe and shower
• Use water for cooking, handwashing, and daily needs
There is no boil water advisory in effect, and no risk to the safety of the City’s drinking water.
Reporting Backups
Please report sewer backups or related issues to the City immediately during business hours at 705-329-7249 and after hours and weekends by calling 705-326-4671.
Orillia Transit will be running on its regular routes and schedule. Expect delays. The only identified stop that is not available at this time is Franklin Street at Forest Avenue. Riders are asked to please go to the next closest stop. For more information, visit
orillia.ca/transit.
- Orillia City Centre (50 Andrew St. S.) has reopened to the public with regular operating hours.
- The Orillia Public Library (36 Mississaga St. W.) has reopened to the public with regular operating hours.
- The Orillia Recreation Centre will remain closed to the public (except for the designated Relief Centre). There will be no drop-in programming or activities available and Fun Pass memberships holders will be provided with a prorated refund.
- Summer Made Fun registration delayed: The opening of registration for Summer Made Fun recreation programming is postponed to Monday, April 14, 2025, at 7 a.m. This ensures equitable access for all residents amid ongoing outages. The program guide is available for viewing at orillia.ca/programs.
- Rotary Place Arena will reopen for user groups only. Drop-in programming such as public skating and the rock wall remains suspended.
- The Municipal Operations Centre remains closed to the public.
- The Orillia Youth Centre is now operational.
- Orillia Transit: Service is fully operational; however, riders should expect delays.
- The Opera House Box Office will reopen with regular business hours beginning Saturday, April 5.
- The Orillia Farmers’ Market will resume this Saturday (April 5) at the Orillia Public Library.
- Waste Collection is suspended for the week of March 31 to April 4. Set materials out the following week.
- The Waste Diversion site is open to the public. Essential loads only.
- Crossing Guards: Will not be on duty
- All public parks in Orillia are closed until further notice. The storm has caused extensive damage, with many downed and unstable trees. The public is reminded that it is extremely unsafe to enter any park areas at this time.
City crews and contractors have been hard at work clearing streets of debris to allow for vehicle traffic. All roads within the city have been reopened.
We recognize that some residents may need to park on the road due to blocked driveways from downed trees or powerlines. City by-law will be making exceptions to the Overnight Parking restrictions in those situations. If you do, please avoid parking near fire hydrants and be prepared to move your vehicle if needed, as Hydro One and emergency crews require clear access to complete restoration work safely.
Safety Information
As power outages continue, residents are urged to prioritize personal safety and use extreme caution. Always treat downed power lines as live and stay at least 10 metres away and report them immediately. Never operate generators, barbecues, or fuel-burning appliances indoors or in enclosed spaces, as they pose a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Use battery-powered lights instead of candles to reduce fire hazards, and unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges. Please check on neighbours, especially seniors or vulnerable individuals, when it is safe to do so.
As power is restored across the city, the City of Orillia is urging residents to take extra precautions to stay safe:
- Ensure stoves, ovens, and other heat-producing appliances were turned off during the outage.
- Reset any tripped breakers and check surge protectors before plugging devices back in.
- If electronics were left plugged in, inspect them for damage before use. Power surges during restoration can harm electronics.
- Turn appliances back on gradually to avoid overwhelming your electrical system. Do not run multiple high-power devices at once.
- Power outages can drain backup batteries. Press the test button on each alarm to make sure they’re functioning properly.
- A full freezer can keep food cold for 48 hours (24 hours if half-full). Refrigerated food is only safe for about 4 hours without power. When in doubt, throw it out.
- After outages and storms, debris can block vents. Clear them before restarting your furnace or dryer to avoid fire or carbon monoxide risks.
- If using a fireplace or woodstove during the outage, ensure chimneys or flues are properly vented and cool before switching back to electric heating.
Damage to your home's electrical system may have to be fixed before Hydro One can reconnect power. If your electrical mast is pulled away from the wall, broken, or detached, please ensure you contact an ESA licensed Electrician. Visit the
ESA website for more information on this process. A
list of qualified electricians in the Orillia area is available on the City’s website at
orillia.ca/icestorm.
Residents are strongly warned not to use barbecues, propane heaters, camping stoves, or gas generators indoors for heating. These devices produce carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless gas that can be fatal. Even partially enclosed spaces like garages or balconies are not safe for their use.
If you're using candles for light or warmth, never leave them unattended and keep them away from anything flammable.
- Dress in layers and use blankets to stay warm
- Never use generators indoors or near doors/windows (carbon monoxide risk)
- Do not use barbecues, gas stoves, or camp stoves indoors
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food
- Use battery-powered lights instead of candles
- Unplug electric vehicles to prevent power surges and protect the vehicle
If you’re sheltering in place:
- Dress in multiple layers of loose, warm clothing
- Use sleeping bags, blankets, and towels to insulate
- Close doors to unused rooms to concentrate heat
- Hang blankets over windows and doorways to reduce drafts
- Keep moving periodically to generate body heat
Residents are encouraged to review the following emergency preparedness and safety resources from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit:
The City has been liaising with multiple agencies to establish community supports, stabilize and maintain critical infrastructure and address hazardous conditions by blocking unsafe roadways and clearing priority areas. Efforts have also included preparing and opening the Relief Centre, working closely with Emergency Management Ontario and the County of Simcoe Emergency Management to coordinate response efforts and liaise with Hydro One to support power restoration plans.
Conditions are evolving rapidly. The City will continue to monitor impacts and provide timely updates on service disruptions, road conditions, and public safety through orillia.ca and the City’s official social media channels.
Support Services Remain Available:
The City has been working closely with community partners to arrange alternative supports for those who have been spending the night at the Relief Centre, ensuring a safe and smooth transition as the facility closes.
- Wellness Checks: If you or someone you know needs extra support, please call 211 to request a wellness check.
- Warmth and Charging: Rotary Place remains open as a charging station, and residents are welcome to visit other City of Orillia facilities during regular hours to warm up.
- The Lighthouse Shelter has resumed regular operations, including community programs such as bagged lunch distribution. Visit orillialighthouse.ca or call 705-329-2265 for details.
- Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital has resumed regular operations. Please visit osmh.on.ca or call 705-325-2201 to learn more about hospital operations and services.
- Food Services: Residents who require help with food access can contact the Sharing Place Food Centre at 705-327-4273 or visit sharingplaceorillia.org for more information.
