Snowstorm Q&A: Gravenhurst Mayor Speaks

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Post on Dec 02, 2024

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Snowstorm Q&A: Gravenhurst Mayor Speaks

Okay, folks, let's talk about that whopper of a snowstorm that hit Gravenhurst! Seriously, I thought my car was gonna become a permanent snow sculpture. So, I grabbed Mayor Hartley, and we’re tackling your burning questions about the blizzard of '24 (or whatever year this is, haha).

What was the biggest challenge during the storm?

Honestly? Keeping everyone safe and informed. The sheer volume of snow was insane – roads were impassable for a while, and power outages were widespread. Communication was key; making sure everyone knew where to find warming centers, what roads were closed, and when to expect the plows was a HUGE priority. We were all glued to our phones and radios, coordinating the response. It was a total team effort, and I'm super proud of how everyone pulled together. The sheer amount of snow, though, that was a beast.

Power outages – what happened there?

Yeah, the power grid took a real beating. High winds and the weight of the snow brought down a bunch of lines. Hydro One was working non-stop, but with conditions like that, it took time to get things back online. We set up warming centers ASAP; we even had some pretty cool folks opening up their homes to neighbors in need. That's the Gravenhurst spirit, people!

How are things looking now?

Things are way better. The roads are mostly clear, although some side streets might still be a bit dicey. Most of the power's back on, and cleanup is well underway. We're still assessing the full damage, but everyone's pitching in to get things back to normal. It’s been a tough few days, but we're resilient here in Gravenhurst. We’ll get through this!

What about the schools?

Schools were closed for a couple of days, of course. Safety first! They're back open now, and everything seems to be running smoothly.

What should residents do if they're still experiencing issues?

If you're still having problems, don't hesitate to reach out! The town's website has all the contact info you need – there’s a dedicated snowstorm support line too. We're here to help.

Any tips for future snowstorms?

Yeah, a few things. Stock up on essentials – food, water, batteries. Charge your phones. Clear a path from your house to the street. And most importantly, check on your neighbours, especially those who are elderly or might need extra help. Community spirit is key, that’s what’ll keep us warm!

Final Thoughts from the Mayor

This storm was a challenge, but it also showed the strength and resilience of our community. Gravenhurst pulled together during a tough time. I'm unbelievably proud of everyone's response. Let’s make sure we keep learning from experiences like this, so we can be even better prepared next time. Stay safe, everyone!