Photo by Tiago J. G. Fernandes via FlickrPhoto by Tiago J. G. Fernandes via Flickr
Windsor

Widespread power outages, flooding, damage caused by thunderstorms

Many residents in Chatham-Kent and Windsor-Essex are without power after severe thunderstorms roared through the area late Thursday evening and into early Friday morning.

On Thursday afternoon, Environment Canada issued a thunderstorm watch for much of southwestern Ontario. Watches were later upgraded to a severe thunderstorm warnings by the early evening, when a line of intense storms moved through, causing extensive damage across the region.

Speaking with CKSY 94.3 Morning Show host Chris McLeod early Friday morning, The Weather Network Storm Hunter Mark Robinson said that as of 12:30 a.m., the worst of the storms have passed.

"This system came through with extremely strong winds, especially in the Windsor, down through to Chatham-area," Robinson explained. "Multiple tornado warnings [were issued] all along this line [of storms]. This has been a big event."

Robinson noted that it's too early to say for certain if a tornado(s) touched down in the area.

Many residents have reported that they are without power as a result of the storms, with Entegrus reporting at least 12,238 customers in Chatham are known be without power. Just over 700 homes in Tilbury have had service interrupted from the storm, and about 347 in Bothwell are also effected.

"As severe weather conditions continue, our crews are accessing the power outages across multiple service territories," read a statement from Entegrus. "[Estimated restoration time] is currently unknown. We are sorry for the inconvenience and will provide updates when they become available. Stay safe."

Along with power outages, are reports of extensive flooding to roads in the area. With little to no lighting on some streets, flooding may not be visible in the dark. Additionally, multiple reports of downed hydro lines, trees, large branches and debris have also been reported.

With these hazards in mind, Chatham-Kent Fire Chief Chris Case has asked all residents to "shelter in place and call 911 if there are any life threatening issues."

As of early Friday morning, Case said no injuries have been reported.

"The crews are working incredibly hard right now. All our first responders are out on the road right now. If people can stay off the roads and let them do their work, that would be a big help," said Case.

Meanwhile, parts of Windsor-Essex is dealing with similar issues. Windsor Fire and Rescue Services said its emergency communications lines have been inundated with calls about downed power lines this evening, and has asked for residents to steer clear of any knocked down wires.

Large outages are being reported by Enwin in Windsor, while Hydro One's outage map shows significant service disruptions in and around Kingsville, Essex, and Amherstberg.

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