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Drug overdose calls spike in Greater Sudbury | CTV News Northern Ontario at 11:30pm for Feb 26, 2026
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The Alouette Bus Lines strike has affected around 2,000 students, with replacement drivers operating on 14 routes while negotiations remain stalled. Public health reports indicate a significant rise in drug overdose calls and related deaths in Greater Sudbury, highlighting a growing crisis in the region.
- The school bus driver strike at Alouette Bus Lines has entered its fourth day, affecting approximately 2,000 students in the region. Many parents are adjusting their work schedules due to the disruption in transportation services
- Alouette Bus Lines has implemented replacement drivers on 14 school bus routes, but negotiations with the union remain stalled. The main issue in the negotiations is the wage disparity, with drivers earning significantly less than their counterparts in Sudbury
- Public health statistics indicate that paramedic calls for drug overdoses in Greater Sudbury nearly doubled last month compared to the same time last year. There has also been a concerning increase in overdose-related deaths in the area
- The chief of paramedic services in Greater Sudbury reported that calls for suspected drug overdoses are becoming more complex. Ongoing social issues in the downtown core are impacting both the community and paramedic operations
- Paramedics are averaging two to three overdoses per shift, highlighting the growing crisis in the region. The latest drug toxicity surveillance report from public health is expected to provide critical insights into the overdose situation
- The Alouette Bus Lines strike has led to parents expressing solidarity with drivers by keeping their children home from school. The company has offered a wage increase, but the union believes it is insufficient to meet their needs
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Paramedic services in Greater Sudbury are facing a significant rise in calls for suspected drug overdoses, with 60 calls reported in January 2026, up from 36 in January 2025. The number of suspected overdose deaths also increased, with 18 deaths in January 2026 compared to 11 the previous year.
- Paramedic services in Greater Sudbury are experiencing a significant increase in calls for suspected drug overdoses, averaging two to three per shift
- In January 2026, there were 60 calls for suspected opioid-related overdoses. This marks a notable rise from 36 calls in January 2025
- The number of suspected overdose deaths in the Sudbury-Manitoulin district also increased. Eighteen deaths were reported in January 2026, up from 11 the previous year
- The chief of paramedic services noted that the complexity of overdose cases is rising. This trend reflects broader social issues affecting the community
- The potency of the drugs being encountered is alarming. There have been instances where Narcan, an overdose reversal drug, has proven ineffective
- The ongoing trend of increasing overdose calls is expected to continue. This indicates a persistent public health crisis in the region
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Weather warnings are in effect across the region, with potential snow squalls and blowing snow expected. A national report indicates that only 46% of adults meet the recommended 150 minutes of weekly physical activity.
- Weather warnings are in effect across the region, with potential snow squalls and blowing snow expected. Some areas may see up to 10 centimeters of snow, with visibility dropping to near zero
- Temperatures are forecasted to fluctuate, with milder conditions arriving on Friday. However, a significant drop is anticipated over the weekend, with lows reaching minus 22 degrees Celsius
- The seven-day forecast indicates a chance of flurries for various regions, including Sudbury and Timmins. North Bay is expected to experience slightly warmer temperatures, reaching the freezing mark by Tuesday
- CTVs Medicine Marriay reports on a national physical activity report card for adults in Canada. The report reveals that only 46% of adults meet the recommended 150 minutes of weekly physical activity
- Barriers to physical activity include environmental factors, social pressures, and time constraints. Many individuals recognize the importance of exercise but struggle to incorporate it into their daily routines
- Lack of motivation and feelings of fatigue are common reasons for not engaging in regular physical activity. These challenges hinder many from achieving their health and wellness goals
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The Premier has announced plans for a new Ontario Science Centre, budgeted at one billion dollars, set to open in 2029. Critics argue that the existing facility is sufficient and funds should be allocated for repairs instead of new construction.
- The Premier unveiled a first look at the new Ontario Science Centre, which may be ready within three years. Doug Ford described the new waterfront location as stunning and world-class
- The new science centre will be built along the shoreline and will incorporate Ontario Places iconic pods. The project is budgeted at one billion dollars for design, construction, and maintenance over 30 years
- Critics argue that the decision to move the science centre is unnecessary. They cite a well-located existing facility at Dawn Mills and Eglinton and believe funds should be allocated for repairs instead of new construction
- The tourism minister defended the new location, stating it will enhance traffic and accessibility. The new centre is designed to make more efficient use of space, providing better flow for learning
- The transformation of Ontario Place will include new parks, trails, and a controversial parking garage. Construction is set to begin this spring, with the complex scheduled to open in 2029
- Instagram will alert parents if their children search for terms related to suicidal self-harm. This initiative is part of Instagrams Perennial Supervision program and aims to provide support resources
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The North Bay Battalion hosted a Hockey Fights Cancer night, winning 4-3 against the Kingston Frontenacs. Students from Cloud Public School participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walks, raising $90,000 over 13 years for the Samaritan Center.
- The North Bay Battalion hosted a Hockey Fights Cancer night, supporting the Canadian Cancer Society. They faced off against the Kingston Frontenacs and secured a 4-3 victory
- Ethan Protests scored one of the two first-period goals for North Bay. His contribution helped the team maintain momentum throughout the game, especially after briefly losing the lead in the third period
- The Rainbow District School Board showcased the Under the C Glow Art Show at Redwood Acres Public School. Students collaborated on a themed art project, contributing to a vibrant display
- Students at Cloud Public School participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walks, raising funds for the Samaritan Center. Over 13 years, the school has raised $90,000 to support those in need
- Educators emphasized the importance of teaching compassion to young students. They encouraged students to understand homelessness and hunger, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility and community support from an early age
- The Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser is taking place across northeastern Ontario, with participants gathering in Sudbury. So far, $100,000 has been raised to support local mental health and addiction programs