Crazy Weather Causes Chaos: School Busses Grounded Across Northwestern Ontario
Wow. Just wow. The weather really threw a wrench into things today, didn't it? Severe weather – I'm talking heavy snowfall and seriously slick roads – has led to widespread school bus cancellations across Northwestern Ontario and beyond. Parents everywhere are scrambling to figure out childcare, and honestly, who saw *that* coming?
Thunder Bay: A Whole Lotta Snow, No School Buses
Here in Thunder Bay, it's a total shutdown for school buses. All routes – city and rural – are cancelled due to the awful road conditions. That means the Lakehead District School Board had to close all its rural schools: Crestview, Five Mile, Gorham Ware, McKenzie, Nor'wester View, Kakabeka, Valley Central, and Whitefish Valley. Inner-city schools are still open, but with no bus service, a lot of kids are staying home. This is the *second* day in a row that the rural schools have been closed because of this storm. Student Transportation Services of Thunder Bay cancelled *every single* bus route. Even Thunder Bay Transit is struggling with the hazardous conditions.
It's a real mess, you know? You plan your day, get the kids ready, and then BAM! Everything's cancelled. It kinda felt like watching a slow-motion trainwreck.
Beyond Thunder Bay: The Ripple Effect
And it's not just Thunder Bay feeling the impact. The Superior-Greenstone District School Board has closed several schools, and over 30 bus routes are cancelled there, too. Dryden, Vermilion Bay, Sioux Lookout, Ignace, and Upsala are also reporting cancellations. Even further afield, the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium announced cancellations due to icy roads. Even in areas that only got rain, some schools opted for early dismissals or cancelled after-school activities – safety first!
You really need to check with your local school board or transportation service for the latest updates. Things are changing fast.
Staying Safe and Informed in the Storm
The road closures are making things even tougher. Parts of Highway 17 and Highway 11 are still closed because of the weather. For the most up-to-date information on highway closures, check the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website. Seriously, keeping tabs on things is crucial right now. Regularly check your local news, your school board's website, and your transportation service's website. It's a lot to keep track of, but it's worth it to stay informed and safe.
Make alternative arrangements if you need to. It’s better to be prepared!
Navigating the Next Few Days
This severe weather has really disrupted things for everyone. It's been a tough couple of days, and we're all hoping for a break soon. Please remember to check your local school board’s website or contact them directly for the very latest information. And most importantly, stay safe out there!
