The City of Wrenford has activated its Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate the response as a historic blizzard warning takes effect across Southwestern Ontario. The alert was issued on December 15, 2025, and warns of severe wind, heavy snow, and dangerously low wind chills over the next 48 hours. City staff are currently monitoring road conditions, power outages, and potential impacts to critical infrastructure. No evacuation orders are in place at this time.
The blizzard warning is expected to bring up to 40 centimetres of snow and sustained winds of 60 kilometres per hour. These conditions will likely cause widespread power outages and make travel extremely dangerous. The City’s Roads and Winter Maintenance crews are pre-positioning at depots and will begin clearing main arterial roads as soon as the storm allows. Please avoid unnecessary travel and keep your vehicle’s fuel tank full in case you need to stay in your car or seek shelter.
As wind chills are forecast to drop below -10°C, the City has activated its cold weather alert protocol. This triggers the opening of designated warming centres for residents who need a warm, safe place to stay. The Ambrel Lake Recreation Centre and the Westbrook Community Arena are open to the public starting this evening. Warming centres operate on a low-barrier basis, meaning no identification or sobriety checks are required to enter. Pets are welcome in designated zones. For more information on shelter locations and hours, visit Emergency shelters and support.
“Activating the Emergency Operations Centre ensures that all City departments, paramedic services, and emergency partners can share information in real time and deploy resources where they are needed most,” said Liam O’Rourke, Community Emergency Management Coordinator. “We are tracking the storm closely and will update residents as conditions change. Please stay indoors, check on your neighbours, and sign up for emergency alerts so you receive updates directly on your phone.”
Residents should review the Extreme weather and storm preparedness guide and build a household emergency kit that includes enough food, water, and medication for at least three days. If you experience a power outage, turn off major appliances to prevent surges when power returns. For road closures, transit changes, or to report a fallen tree, call 311 or dial 519-555-0100.
For ongoing updates on the blizzard response, winter parking bans, and road clearing priorities, visit the Emergency Management page.