Glazed tree branch after winter frozen rain. (Photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / bettapoggi)Glazed tree branch after winter frozen rain. (Photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / bettapoggi)
Midwestern

Freezing rain warning persists, leads to power outages

Updated at 7:44 a.m.

Freezing rain is expected to begin this morning and last much of the day across midwestern Ontario.

Environment Canada issued a freezing rain warning for the entire area.

Forecasters expect the Dundalk Highlands will experience the worst effects of this system, with freezing rain lasting into this evening.

Communities along the Lake Huron shoreline will not see as much freezing rain thanks to slightly warmer temperatures.

This system will also include wind gusts to 70 km/h so power outages are possible.

Hydro One is reporting that power is restored in most areas of North Perth and North Huron. Just before 7 a.m., Hydro One was reporting thousands of customers were affected by a power outage. That number is now down to just over 400.

The weather has also triggered bus cancellations through the region and there are some school closures in Huron and Perth. Most of the school closures are again in the North Huron and North Perth areas.

The Upper Grand District School Board, which covers schools in Wellington County, have closed all schools and offices to staff and students Wednesday. The board says students are to shift to remote learning, where possible. And Staff should not report to work in person, and should shift to remote working where possible.

The Wellington Catholic District School Board has also closed all schools and students are being asked to shift to remote learning.

--with files from Steve Sabourin

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