Environment Canada has lifted its severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings for the Waterloo region, Guelph, and nearby areas.
The alert was issued on Wednesday due to severe thunderstorms and a potential tornado threat.
Just before 5 p. m. on Wednesday, the weather service sent out an emergency alert to mobile phones across Waterloo region and surrounding areas, warning about strong winds in the area. Environment Canada states that severe thunderstorms can lead to tornadoes.
WATCH | Severe thunderstorm rushes through downtown Kitchener on Wednesday :
Severe thunderstorm rushes through downtown Kitchener on Wednesday
Powerful winds brought heavy rain in waves through downtown Kitchener on Wednesday. The intense gusts lasted around fifteen minutes before giving way to lighter rain. Environment Canada had issued a red warning for severe thunderstorms earlier that day.
A number of residents in Waterloo region and Guelph also received two tornado warnings at 5:08 p. m. and again at 5:34 p. m., both advising people to seek immediate shelter if threatening weather approached.
Wind gusts exceeding 110 km/h could occur, along with hail ranging from quarter- to ping-pong-ball sizes, as well as local rainfall totals reaching up to 50 mm.
A tornado watch for London and nearby regions has also been canceled.
In the Waterloo region and Guelph area, Environment Canada mentioned that power outages might happen due to strong winds, warning that significant damage could be done to property, buildings, and trees. There’s also a risk of serious injury.
If threatening weather approaches, residents should take cover right away, ideally in a basement or interior room. If outside, protect yourself from flying debris and hail.
“When thunder roars, go indoors,” Environment Canada advises.
Residents should keep an eye on alerts and forecasts as storms continue to develop.
Power outages in Kitchener and Waterloo
Enova Power reported that as of Wednesday at 7:30 p. m., there were power outages affecting several areas of Kitchener and Waterloo.
The outage map still indicated multiple areas without power in Wellesley and Wilmot.
Enova Power says there are several areas with no power in Kitchener as of Wednesday evening as a severe thunderstorm passed through the area. (Aastha Shetty/CBC)
At the same time, Grand Bridge Energy reported outages occurring in Cambridge as well.
Main Street at Beverly Street was still facing power issues by 7:30 p. m., impacting around 1,368 people.
An additional outage affecting roughly 156 individuals was reported in the Shinglebridge Place area of Cambridge.
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