THUNDER BAY – In a sure sign of spring, ice breaking is set to begin at the Port of Thunder Bay this week.
The United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Alder is expected to begin clearing ice on or around Tuesday.
The Canadian and U.S. coast guards cooperate annually to clear Great Lakes channels for shipping.
The Soo Locks are expected to open March 25, allowing the shipping season to begin in earnest.
In a release, the Canadian Coast Guard warned area residents the combination of warmer weather and ice breaking can make conditions more dangerous.
“All ice surface users should plan their ice activities carefully, use caution on the ice, and avoid the shipping lanes and ice breaking operations,” the agency advised. “Unsafe ice conditions can persist long after an icebreaker has left the area.”
The planned date of ice breaking could change without notice depending on weather conditions or operations requirements.
