Bonfield and Calvin declare emergencies after a violent storm causes flooding, downed trees, and power outages, prompting evacuations across Northern Ontario.
Violent Storm Triggers Local Emergencies in Bonfield and Calvin
Late Saturday night, a powerful storm swept across Northern Ontario, prompting states of emergency in the rural municipalities of Bonfield and Calvin. The storm left behind a trail of destruction — downed trees, flooded roads, damaged buildings, and stranded residents — forcing officials to initiate evacuations and shelter-in-place orders.
Impact on Communities and Infrastructure
Municipal roads in Calvin were rendered impassable due to flooding and debris, while Highway 17 between Bonfield and Mattawa was shut down. Access to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park was blocked until 8 p.m. Sunday. In Bonfield, critical roads such as Pine Lake Road and McNutt Road suffered major damage, with several reduced to single-lane or fully closed.
Personal Accounts Highlight Storm’s Intensity
Bill Steer, founder of the Canadian Ecology Centre located in the storm-hit park, described the terrifying moments when a tree crashed through his cabin roof. “It was all over in about 30 seconds,” he said, confirming all staff and visitors at the centre were safe. Campers Cori Lynn Barron and Michael Holden recounted a harrowing escape after winds toppled trees around their trailer and vehicle, eventually self-evacuating and finding emergency responders on foot.
Emergency Response and Evacuation Efforts
Authorities swiftly mobilized emergency services. Calvin Township opened an evacuation centre at Mike Rodden Arena in Mattawa, providing shelter, blankets, and supplies. Over 290 people were evacuated from affected provincial parks. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), alongside emergency teams, K9 units, and even military personnel from Petawawa, conducted search-and-rescue operations in both Champlain and Kiosk Provincial Parks.
Injuries, Medical Alerts, and Hospital Response
Multiple injuries were reported, including two campers in Algonquin Park, one of whom was airlifted to hospital. The North Bay Regional Health Centre and Mattawa Hospital declared Code Orange alerts, preparing for a surge in patients. Officials stressed that, as of Sunday evening, no fatalities had been confirmed.
Local and Provincial Leadership Respond
Nipissing MPP Victor Fedeli visited the region Sunday, pledging provincial support and thanking first responders. Ontario’s Minister of Emergency Preparedness, Jill Dunlop, praised the collaborative efforts of emergency crews, hydro workers, and volunteers, stating, “Your work is making a real difference in these communities.”
Storm Classification Still Under Investigation
While Environment Canada had issued a severe thunderstorm warning, there is still no official confirmation that a tornado touched down. The Northern Tornadoes Project has deployed a team to assess damage patterns at Samuel de Champlain Park. A determination is expected by Monday evening.
Ongoing Risks and Public Safety Advisory
Emergency services continue to assess damage and clear debris. Residents are urged to stay off roads, avoid non-essential travel, and remain in safe locations. Cell and landline disruptions remain across parts of the region.
For assistance, residents in Calvin may call 1-877-330-3213, Bonfield residents can contact 705-776-2659, and the OPP non-emergency line is available at 1-888-310-1122.
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