A severe storm hit Winnipeg on Monday night, causing significant damage in the city’s southwest area, including a house partially collapsing. Experts suspect a small tornado may have touched down, a rare occurrence in urban areas. Further assessment is required to confirm the tornado, with plans to use drones for a comprehensive evaluation of the damage extent.
The storm wreaked havoc, tearing off shingles and plywood from roofs, destroying fences, scattering barbecues and sheds across yards, uprooting trees, and damaging a metal shelter for shopping carts in a grocery store parking lot. Residents, like Cyndi Porcher from Whyte Ridge neighborhood, were shocked by the extent of the destruction, likening it to scenes commonly seen in the U.S. tornado-prone regions.
While tornadoes are more prevalent in U.S. cities than on the Canadian Prairies, the occurrence in Winnipeg was unexpected but possible, as noted by atmospheric science professor John Hanesiak. The emotional impact on affected residents is significant, prompting calls for city support.
The City of Winnipeg is assessing the storm impacts, with initial reports highlighting tree damage as a primary concern. Meanwhile, southern Manitoba continues to face severe weather, with Brandon experiencing heavy rains and overland flooding. Meteorologists are still determining the storm’s intensity, acknowledging that burst winds, rather than a tornado, may have caused the damage.
Additional rainfall warnings have been issued for western Manitoba, with expectations of further heavy rainfall. The severe weather season is expected to continue through June and July, with periodic stable and drier weather patterns. Residents are urged to stay vigilant as the region navigates through the ongoing storm season.