Severe thunderstorms sweep through Thunder Bay: Environment Canada issues severe thunderstorm warning, thousands of customers briefly without power

On the morning of Saturday, August 9, Environment Canada issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for a strong convective band moving toward the local area, indicating that strong wind gusts, hail up to the size of a nickel, and brief heavy rainfall were all possible, and warning of an increased risk of utility failures. When the thunderstorm approached, officials advised residents to immediately seek shelter to ensure safety.

Due to the storm, utility company Synergy North reported three separate power outages in the city, affecting a total of about 3,500 customers, with power expected to be restored in phases as early as that afternoon. First, in the area of Cumming Street–Empire Avenue–Marks Street South–Tarbutt Street South, about 1,272 customers were affected, with restoration expected around 1 p.m. Second, in the John Street Road–Oliver Road–Thunder Bay Expressway–Mapleward Road area, restoration was expected around 3 p.m., affecting about 707 customers. Third, in the Red River Road–Spofford–South Water Street–High Street area, restoration was expected around 2 p.m., affecting about 1,553 customers. The company also stated that repair crews were working hard while ensuring safety, and the latest progress could be viewed via the "Outage Map" linked on their social media.

As of this writing, the above warnings and outage information all point to strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall as the main hazards. Meteorological authorities remind that severe thunderstorm warnings are typically issued when damaging hail, strong winds, or heavy rain are expected or occurring. Residents should reduce unnecessary outings and stay away from temporary structures, old trees, and flooded sections of road.