Significant Weather Watch Issued for Peterborough County

Peterborough County, ON - December 28, 2025 – Environment Canada has issued a Yellow Alert for southern Peterborough County, Lakefield, and the City of Peterborough, and an Orange Alert for northern Peterborough County, due to an approaching freezing rain event.

Freezing rain is expected to begin this afternoon and continue overnight. Conditions may briefly transition to rain on Monday morning as temperatures rise slightly above the freezing mark.

Peterborough County is actively monitoring the weather forecast. Road crews are responding to current conditions, and the County is preparing should conditions worsen to the point where a Significant Weather Event (SWE) declaration becomes necessary.

A Significant Weather Event declaration does not reduce the level of winter maintenance service provided by the County. Rather, it formally acknowledges that hazardous conditions may delay standard maintenance timelines due to safety concerns and weather severity.

Travel and Road Safety

Residents are encouraged to exercise caution and adjust their travel plans accordingly. Freezing rain can quickly create dangerous and unpredictable driving conditions. Avoid unnecessary travel where possible to help reduce the risk of collisions and keep roads safer for everyone.

Potential Power Outages

Environment Canada has also noted that prolonged utility outages are possible. Residents are encouraged to monitor Environment Canada for ongoing weather updates and to review steps they can take to prepare for power outages. Information on emergency preparedness during power outages is available at: How to Prepare for a Power Outage

If you experience a power outage, it can be reported to Hydro One by texting 92887 (WATTS) or through the Hydro One outage map: Hydro One Outage Map

Safety Reminder: Stay at least 10 metres away from fallen power lines, Hydro One advises. Downed power lines may still be energized and deadly. Electricity can travel through the ground, even if it appears dry and safe. Report downed power lines to Hydro One at 1-800-434-1235. For additional safety information, visit: Hydro One Outages and Safety

What Is a Significant Weather Event?

A Significant Weather Event is defined as an approaching or occurring weather hazard with the potential to pose a significant danger to users of municipal highways. When hazardous weather is expected, Environment Canada issues alerts through its Public Weather Alerting Program, which may prompt a municipal SWE declaration.

Learn more about Significant Weather Events and what they mean for residents: Peterborough County - Significant Weather

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, plan ahead, and take precautions to protect themselves and their families as weather conditions evolve.

For more information, please contact:

Tracie Bertrand
General Manager, Tourism and Communications
Communications@ptbocounty.ca
705-743-0380 ext. 2507