Storm Alert Lifted for Local Areas

A severe thunderstorm watch has been canceled by Environment Canada after the weather agency warned of damaging winds and a tornado risk for Hamilton earlier on Wednesday evening.

By 9 p. m., the thunderstorm watches in Hamilton, Brantford, Burlington, and St. Catharines were no longer in effect.

Most areas experienced rain and strong winds in the early evening, leading Alectra to report some power outages.

In Hamilton, as of 8 p. m., Alectra’s outage map indicated that over 4,500 customers were without power, noting that electricity went out around 6 p. m., shortly after Environment Canada issued a tornado alert for the region.

The utility company stated that the causes of these outages were “under investigation” and they anticipated restoration between 10 p. m. and 2 a. m.

Hamilton Mountain resident Philip Bradshaw told CBC Hamilton that a large tree branch fell onto his deck. Photos he shared on Facebook displayed his backyard furniture scattered about.

“Our whole backyard tossed into pieces,” Bradshaw said. “That was quite a big wind. I don’t think I’ve seen that in quite many years in Hamilton.”

“Our lights flickered quite a bit too,” said Bradshaw.

Damage from the strong winds and rainstorm in Hamilton at Philip Bradshaw’s West Mountain home. (Philip Bradshaw/Facebook)

Around noon Wednesday, the federal agency placed nearly all of southwestern Ontario – including Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, and Niagara – under a severe thunderstorm watch.

A large part of eastern Ontario was also impacted. A heavy thunderstorm in the Greater Toronto Area caused damage to buildings, road closures, disrupted commutes, and power outages.

Environment Canada cautioned about damaging winds

Earlier in the day, Environment Canada indicated wind gusts could reach up to 110 km/h with potential rainfall of up to 50 millimeters, along with hail as big as ping pong balls.

“Significant damage or destruction to infrastructure, homes and the natural environment is possible,” the service stated.

“In case of a tornado warning for your area: go indoors to a room on the lowest floor away from outside walls and windows such as a basement bathroom stairwell or interior closet.. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud swirling debris near the ground flying debris or any threatening weather approaching take cover immediately.”

The statement added that utility outages were likely along with property damage and harm to trees.

Conservation Halton released a notice saying they didn’t expect widespread flooding but advised both children and adults to stay clear of watercourses like bridges and streams where swift water could pose dangers.

The City of Hamilton announced Wednesday evening it had sent crews out to clear catch basins culverts and ditches as part of its response plan due to anticipated thunder and rain conditions.

The city was also checking other areas prone to flooding while having staff ready for traffic control on roads likely experiencing ponding issues.

The city suggested residents clear their catch basins eavestroughs downspouts and backwater valves.

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