Freezing Rain Grips Central Canada: Recovery Efforts Underway After January Ice Storm
Following a significant freezing rain event that swept across Ontario and Quebec between 26 January and 29 January 2026, utility crews are working around the clock to restore power to the final remaining households. The storm, which deposited up to 20mm of ice accretion in some regions, caused widespread travel disruptions and localized infrastructure damage. As of 01 February 2026, the focus has shifted from emergency response to long-term grid stabilization and debris removal.
Impact on Infrastructure and Power
The weight of the ice accumulation caused significant stress on the electrical grid. At the peak of the storm on Wednesday, over 150,000 customers were without power. Hydro Quebec and Hydro One reported that the majority of outages were caused by “danger trees”—specimens outside the immediate right-of-way that bowed or snapped under the weight of the ice, falling onto distribution lines.
- Power Restoration: 95% of affected customers had power restored by Saturday evening.
- Transit: VIA Rail services between Windsor and Quebec City faced delays of up to four hours during the peak of the icing.
- Aviation: Major hubs in Toronto and Montreal saw a 30% cancellation rate on 27 January 2026.
Knowledge vs. Rumours: The State of the Grid
While social media reports suggested that the 2026 storm was “worse than 1998,” meteorological data confirms this is factually incorrect. The 1998 Ice Storm saw accumulations exceeding 100mm in some areas, whereas the recent event peaked at 25mm. However, the impact on modern digital infrastructure was more pronounced, with several localized internet outages reported due to fibre-optic lines being severed by falling branches.
Emergency Response and Safety
Public safety officials have praised the quick response of municipal sanding and salting crews. Despite the treacherous conditions, major highway collisions were kept to a minimum due to early “Work from Home” advisories issued by provincial governments. Residents are reminded to remain cautious of “widow-makers”—large branches that have cracked but not yet fallen—which pose a significant risk during the current thaw-freeze cycle.
FAQ
What is the difference between freezing rain and sleet?
Freezing rain falls as a liquid but freezes instantly upon contact with cold surfaces (roads, trees, power lines). Sleet consists of ice pellets that bounce upon impact and do not coat surfaces in a smooth layer of ice.
How can I report a downed power line safely?
Always assume a downed line is live. Stay at least 10 metres (33 feet) back and call 911 or your local utility provider immediately. Do not attempt to clear branches off lines yourself.
Will there be more ice storms in February 2026?
While long-range forecasts suggest a volatile temperature pattern for the remainder of the month, meteorologists note that the “February Thaw” often creates the specific conditions necessary for freezing rain. Residents should keep their emergency kits stocked with at least 72 hours of supplies.