Orillia cleans up after punishing storms
Orillia residents remain positive and resilient. It's a community where being neighbourly is a way of life.
It's been challenge after challenge for residents of Orillia, Ont., starting with a February that saw near-record level snowfall amounts, followed by a devastating spring ice storm, causing days without power.
Then, as residents grappled with the cold and ice, yet another storm moved through, bringing enough rain to cause localized flooding.
On Thursday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans to visit the community and provide support for the thousands of residents still without power.
A shelter is open in Orillia where people can have a warm place to sleep, take a shower, and have a meal to eat.
Residents say that despite the challenges, morale remains high.
“Other people come around and pick up for everybody else," says Susan Carr, an Orillia resident.
"So I find it very positive.”
Despite a harrowing week after a challenging winter, there is optimism the power will return shortly. That, warmer weather on the horizon is helping keep the community strong.