1:30 p.m.: Limited plowing resumes in The County

The municipality has resumed snow clearing operations this morning on several main road arteries in Prince Edward County.   Staff prioritized routes to support Hydro One’s efforts to restore power. Hydro crews are now able to work in the areas of West Lake and Consecon, and they are on their way to Waupoos.   “Even though plows are out, road conditions are still extremely unsafe at this time and all roads remain closed. I’m asking everyone to stay off the roads and allow plow operators to do their job,” Mayor Steve Ferguson says.    All County roads remain closed by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The public is advised to stay home and shelter in place.   The municipality has shared plowing information with local health-care and emergency response agencies so that they can arrange staff coverage.   The County has issued a call for mutual aid support from surrounding municipalities less impacted by the winter storm. Several jurisdictions have offered support; more information will be shared as it becomes available.   The municipality is arranging for emergency shelter for motorists who were stranded overnight in their vehicles on Highway 62. The Emergency Control Group will assess the need to expand warming centres when it meets at 3 pm on Saturday, December 24 and more information will be shared at that time.   Visit the Hydro One website for power outage updates or to report an outage. You can also report an outage by calling 1.800.434.1235.   If you are stranded along the roadside, call the OPP’s non-emergency phone line at 1.888.310.1122. The OPP has specialized equipment it can use to assist stranded motorists. Please be advised that the OPP are experiencing a high volume of calls at this time and you may have to wait to speak with an operator.   Dial 911 in an emergency when you need immediate help from police, fire or ambulance services. An emergency situation can include medical emergencies such as someone experiencing chest pain or difficulty breathing or a fire that is not contained or controlled.