Saying we’re “teetering on having to begin cancelling surgeries”, Premier Doug Ford announced that Toronto and Peel are moving into lockdown on Monday for at least 28 days.

It means no indoor social gatherings except with members of the same household and outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people. There will be no indoor dining at restaurants and gyms, casinos, theatres, and museums will be closed. Hair salons will also close and a maximum of 10 will be allowed in places of worship in Toronto and Peel. Find the  provincial COVID framework here

Grocery stores, pharmacies and big box retailers will be deemed essential and remain open, with capacity limits and Doug Ford is urging people not to hoard supplies.

“So please folks, avoid panic buying right now, there’s no need to buy more than you need for a week or two,” Ford told reporters.

Schools, childcare, pharmacies, doctors, dentist offices will stay open in lockdown zones. And the Premier says help is on the way for affected businesses.

“We’re doubling our supports for businesses impacted by these measures and I’ve directed that up to $600M in relief be made available immediately to help these businesses with fixed costs including help with their hydro bills and their property taxes.”

There’s a $750 fine for violating these new rules. York Region remains in the RED-CONTROL level where Durham will also move on Monday. Gatherings in this zone are now limited to 5 people.