Foul weather didn't cause power outage, but still makes its mark on York Region

Between 10 and 20 centimetres of freezing rain possible

Yorkregion.com
March 24, 2016
By Lisa Queen

Today's freezing rain was not the cause of a power outage in Vaughan early this morning.

The problem, which knocked out power to 26,000 customers from about 4 to 7 a.m., was at the Jackson power station on Rutherford Road between Hwys. 50 and 27, Power Stream spokesperson Lori Gariepy said.

While foul weather has been ruled out as the cause, the incident is being investigated, she said.

However, bad weather has made its mark in other ways across York Region.

School buses for the public and Catholic school boards have been canceled, although schools remain open.

York University has adopted "weather emergency procedures" and canceled classes, exams and events. Libraries are closed.

Seneca College is operating but officials are monitoring the weather.

GO Transit is reporting delays on the Stouffville line.

15th Sideroad east of Dufferin Street in King is closed due to downed power lines, York Regional Police tweeted at 7:45 a.m.

The lights were out in Georgina at Varney Road and Deer Park Road as of about 9 a.m.

Police are advising drivers to treat intersections where the power is out as four-way stops.

It looks like people are staying home today or being cautious, as there were only three vehicle collisions in York Region as of about 9 a.m., York Regional Police said.

"Do not call 911 to report outages," police said.

"With a storm warning in effect, might be a good idea to charge your cell phone now in case of emergencies."

A freezing rain warning remains in effect, Environment Canada said.

Between 10 and 20 centimeters of freezing rain is possible before it turns to rain this afternoon, it said.