Journal staff Widespread power outages and extensive damage were reported across Sarnia-Lambton, following a severe storm that prompted tornado warnings for the area Thursday afternoon.
The aftermath of Thursday's storm in Sarnia. (Ronny D'Haene photo)
Journal staff
Widespread power outages and extensive damage were reported across Sarnia-Lambton, following a severe storm that prompted tornado warnings for the area Thursday afternoon.
Bluewater Power said crews worked through the night to restore power after downed trees littered the city, some blocking roadways and landing on homes, buildings and vehicles.
A bench at Veteran's Park in Sarnia is damaged by a fallen tree following Thursday's severe weather. (Cathy Dobson photo) A toppled tree at the corner of Front and Exmouth Streets, following Thursdays severe weather. (Cathy Dobson photo)
"At the peak of the damage today, we had approximately 17,000 customer without power," the company posted Thursday.
Sarnia Fire & Rescue said crews responded to multiple emergencies following the intense storm, including downed wires. Residents were being urged to call 911 to report lines on the ground, and stay back at least 10m or 33 feet. Sarnia Police also remind residents to treat all intersections without power as four-way stops.
"Many reports of trees down and outages all over the city," a Bluewater Power post read, Thursday. "Crews are responding but it may have to be PB &J for dinner tonight folks."
Dozens of images of downed trees, damaged properties and large hail have been shared by residents on social media. Environment Canada issued a tornado warning for the area around 4 p.m., Thursday.
An uprooted tree on the roof at Bridgeview School in Point Edward. (Cathy Dobson photo) Downed trees are scattered across the playground at Bridgeview School in Point Edward. (Cathy Dobson photo) Large hail was reported in Courtright following a severe storm in Sarnia-Lambton. (Photo by Cristal Anderson) Downed trees blocking the roadway along Christina St. North. (Submitted photo) The scene near Navelli's Diner on Exmouth Street. (Submitted by Patrick Mumby) Local photographer Sean Donnelly captured this image of Thursday's storm coming across Lake Huron.
More to come.
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