While power has been restored to most homes and businesses across Bracebridge following the ice storm, a small number of residents remain without electricity nearly two weeks later. The Town of Bracebridge says it is continuing to work with local and regional partners to support recovery efforts and ensure the well-being of affected community members.
Town officials are expressing gratitude to first responders, utility crews, municipal staff, local businesses, and neighbours who stepped up to assist one another during the aftermath of the storm. Residents are encouraged to keep checking in on vulnerable individuals and to help with clean-up efforts where possible.
Community Support
To assist those still impacted, the Town has opened its recreation facilities to the public during regular hours. Both the Bracebridge Sportsplex on Clearbrook Trail and the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre on Salmon Avenue are available as warming centres and offer spaces to charge electronic devices. Reu’s Café at the Sportsplex and Brews and Bites at the community centre remain open daily to provide snacks and beverages. The Town says emergency food boxes also continue to be distributed.
Park Closures
Residents are reminded that all Town parks, trails, and cemeteries remain closed due to heavy debris and unsafe conditions. Officials urge people to stay away from these areas until clean-up work is complete and the spaces are deemed safe.
Seasonal Properties
Seasonal property owners are also being cautioned about returning to the area at this time. Many seasonal and private roads remain littered with fallen trees and debris, and are not currently maintained.
“If you decide to visit, do so at your own risk and ensure you are fully self-sufficient,” the Town stated.
Those who choose to visit are urged to come fully prepared with supplies such as food, fuel, and emergency provisions.
Assistance Available
For those in need of assistance, the District of Muskoka has set up an ice storm response line at 705-645-2100 ext. 4500, available daily between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or by email.
Cleanup Support
In terms of clean-up, the District of Muskoka is waiving tipping fees for chippable wood debris—such as branches, twigs, and shrubs—at the Rosewarne Landfill in Bracebridge and the Beiers Transfer Station in Gravenhurst. Materials must be no longer than four feet in length, and stumps will not be accepted.
Curbside collection of storm-related yard waste will begin Monday, April 21, for properties that already receive leaf and yard waste pickup. Collection will run for three weeks. Residents are asked to place materials by the curb by 7 a.m. on Mondays and be patient as collection may take several days. Materials should not block sidewalks, roads, or other infrastructure to ensure safety.
Those who are unable to manage storm debris due to physical limitations or financial hardship can request support by contacting the District’s storm assistance line. While the ice storm has caused significant disruption, local officials say the community’s resilience and spirit of cooperation remain strong.
