By Moya Beall
December 9, 2025
As we wave goodbye to 2025 in Kawartha Lakes, it’s clear this year has been marked by extreme weather. From record-breaking snowfalls to a historic ice storm that caused widespread destruction, the weather has been relentless. We faced power outages, flooding, heat waves, and even hazardous wildfire smoke. The year ended with severe drought—a reality that many are still grappling with.
The financial toll of these climate disasters is staggering. The ice storm alone caused over $340 million in insured damages, but studies show that only a fraction of losses are covered by insurance. For every dollar insurers pay, there’s another $3 to $4 that isn’t accounted for. Everyone faced losses. Many lost beloved trees that provided shade and shelter. Homeowners struggled with damaged property, businesses faced downturns, and local farmers bore the brunt of parched fields and dried-up water sources.
Yet perhaps the most valuable thing lost is our sense of stability. Trust in our governments to effectively address climate change is waning. Recent events are part of what NATO calls “climate breakdown,” a pressing issue that needs immediate solutions.
Seven years ago, Ontario’s government introduced the ‘Made-in-Ontario Climate Plan’ with the promise of protecting our environment. However, the reality has been far less ambitious. A recent report by the provincial Auditor General revealed failures in achieving the initial promises of the climate plan. Following this, the government passed Bill 68, which removed essential requirements for emission reduction targets and progress reports.
Claims from Ford’s office suggest that emissions will fall, but data tells a different story. Research indicates that emissions in Ontario have only risen, aside from the temporary drop during the pandemic.
The danger is real. The recent ruling from the International Court of Justice emphasized the urgent need for governments to act against climate harm. Ignoring this puts our health and environment at risk.
What we truly need is a comprehensive climate plan—one that actively works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience in our communities. Our future and that of many generations depend on it.
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climate change,environment,ice storm,Kawartha Lakes
