Ice Storm - Statement from Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
Dec. 22, 2013
The City of Vaughan has been hit by a major ice storm that has impacted our community over the past 36 hours. As Mayor, my top priority is your safety and getting our city fully operational again. Our emergency operations centre is fully staffed and taking all necessary steps to address the challenges created by the storm. I have spoken directly with Premier Kathleen Wynne who expressed her concern to me for the citizens of Vaughan and offered her assistance.
I strongly urge all residents to stay indoors if possible – if you must drive or walk outdoors, please avoid going near ice-covered trees and downed hydro lines. We are working around the clock to clear downed trees and branches. We are focussing our efforts on the areas that pose imminent hazards to you and your property first. Our well-trained team is doing their very best to accomplish these tasks and achieve positive results.
Given the cold temperatures that are expected this evening and over the coming days, we also have mobilized our plows to begin clearing ice and slush on roadways. We appreciate your patience as we complete the priority areas and continue to effectively make our way across the city.
PowerStream is diligently working to restore the power outages. The City is responding by opening warming centres at Dufferin Clark Community Centre, Maple Community Centre and Vellore Village Community Centre. I encourage anyone impacted by the outages to make their way to one of these centres.
This storm has had widespread impacts on our community, but it is heartwarming to see neighbours helping neighbours and people coming together to assist those who need it. I’d also like to thank the many City employees who have been working very hard this weekend to deal with this storm. Their commitment to this community continues to impress me as they clear roads and trees, respond to your calls and focus on ensuring your safety. We’re in this together.
Thank you.
Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua