Prime Highlights

• Apocalyptic storm weekend tore havoc across Eastern Ontario, causing lights to go out and homes to be destroyed.
• Meteorologists investigate potential tornadoes that were part of the storm system.

Key Facts

• Dozens of homes are left in darkness with storm damage being fixed by power crews.
• Local officials comment on monumental tree falling, power line cut down, and rural infrastructure damage.

Key Background

A howling storm tore across Eastern Ontario at the weekend, destroying houses and isolating a few hundred residents from the power supply. The fierce weather front hit the area late on Saturday night in the form of heavy rain, gusty winds, and hail across the board. Firefighters were sent out to deal with uprooted trees, power lines knocked down, and road blockages.

The storm has also encouraged the Northern Tornadoes Project to carry out a study of the nature of the extreme weather occurrence. Specialists are examining evidence which suggests the possible formation of tornadoes or strong downbursts in affected areas. Preliminary observations suggest the presence of strong straight-line winds, but subsequent work will determine whether any action tornadic occurred. The study will provide a better indication of future tracking and warning schemes of intense storms.

Power disruptions have been a prime concern, and electric supply companies such as Hydro One have faced intensive levels of service disruption across the province. Repair teams work day and night to get the power back on, but rural municipalities and heavily damaged rural areas can expect long delays. Neighbourhood shelters and community centers are being opened up to offer relief to affected groups, especially in those areas where heating or cooling equipment was impacted.

The government reminds local residents to exercise caution outside, particularly around trees falling, power lines that are down, and broken structures. The Ontario Emergency Management Office is watching and working with municipalities in attempting to put the cleanup on a priority basis. Cleanup is under way and being done while assessments continue; rebuilding and strengthening infrastructure ahead of more frequent intense weather is in the spotlight now.

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