Thunder Bay Today's News Roundup: Winter Storm Bears Down, School Buses Cancelled, Highways Closed, Social Services Budget Nearly 'Standing Still'

On December 18, 2025, Thunder Bay and the surrounding area remained "locked in" by a winter storm. From the full cancellation of rural school buses and the closure of the eastern section of the highway, to the delay of the Water Street Terminal project and the TBDSSAB budget essentially "staying in place," the community is still seeking more support for the homeless under the dual pressures of weather and finances. Meanwhile, Crime Stoppers raised over $12,000, and schools and community organizations provided food aid and holiday warmth to students and families.

1. Winter storm escalates: rural school buses cancelled, multiple rural public schools closed

Due to ongoing snowfall and icy road conditions, multiple rural school bus routes were forced to suspend service on the 18th, and several rural public schools announced closures for the day. Reports noted that the severe weather was considered to pose a significant risk to morning traffic safety, so the school board chose to "err on the side of caution," prioritizing the safety of students and bus drivers.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada maintained a winter storm warning for the Thunder Bay area, specifically reminding that from Thursday to Friday there is a possibility of flash freezing , with slippery road conditions expected to persist throughout the city and on highways for a full day or longer.

2. Eastern highway blocked: sections east of Nipigon closed successively

At the regional level, Highway 17 was closed between Nipigon and Schreiber due to a traffic accident, and the section of Highway 11 leading to Longlac also remained closed due to weather conditions. Multiple regional media outlets reminded eastbound long-distance travelers to prepare for detours or delays, as freight and pre-holiday travel would be affected.

3. Social services: TBDSSAB budget increase limited, community groups urge mayor to declare a "state of emergency"

The Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) has approved its 2026 operating and capital budget. Reports described the budget as having "limited increases," and Chair Brian Hamilton bluntly stated that the overall arrangement is "quite status quo," a stance that has drawn attention amid the current high inflation and housing crisis.

4. Public safety and community: Crime Stoppers raises over $12,000, two charged in south-end break-in spree

In terms of public safety, a fundraising raffle held this Monday raised over $12,000for the local Crime Stoppers program. The event took place at car dealership Dominion Motors, and organizers said the funds would be used to maintain the anonymous tip line and assist police in solving cases.

On the other hand, police conducted a concentrated investigation into multiple break and enters at a commercial establishment in the south end of the city, and two local residents have now been charged with multiple related offenses. The cases are seen as a microcosm of the security pressures faced by south-end businesses, and also remind property owners to strengthen security measures during the combined period of storms and holidays.

5. Education and children: St. Jude students receive holiday breakfast packages

In heartwarming news, approximately St. Jude 的约 145 students at a Thunder Bay elementary school received "holiday breakfast packages," ensuring they can still have a relatively stable and healthy breakfast at home during the two-week school break.

6. Urban development and economy: Water Street Terminal delay sparks mixed reactions

Regarding public transit infrastructure, the construction delay at the downtown waterfront Water Street Terminal has sparked "mixed emotions" among passengers and residents. Some residents who rely on public transit feel that the prolonged construction affects transfer efficiency and the waiting experience, hoping the project can be completed as soon as possible; others say that as long as it ultimately results in a more comfortable and reliable central station, "waiting a bit longer is acceptable."

7. Public health: Influenza A cases rising in Northern Ontario, residents urged to get vaccinated promptly

The regional public health unit reported thatInfluenza A cases are on the rise in Northwestern Ontario, and health officials are urging residents to get flu shots as soon as possible, especially children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.