After a powerful thunderstorm hit Winnipeg on Sunday night, a local resident described the aftermath as “overwhelming” as his car was blown into a nearby yard. The storm caused widespread damage in the Westwood and River Heights areas, with downed trees and power lines reported, according to Manitoba Hydro spokesperson Peter Chura.
Darryl Gervais recounted how his Pontiac Vibe was pushed by the storm’s strong winds, resulting in it rolling over into a lawn on Lindsay Street. Gervais had recently completed repairs on the vehicle and had left it for his son to use before the storm struck. The vehicle suffered significant damage, with smashed windows, a crumpled roof, and parts scattered across the lawn. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but Gervais expressed gratitude that the car stopped just short of hitting a house.
Environment Canada’s preliminary data indicated wind speeds of 83 kilometers per hour in Winnipeg during the storm, with the city receiving 35 millimeters of rain and The Forks area nearly 70 millimeters. The destructive winds and heavy rainfall led to various damages, including uprooted trees and downed power lines.
Robyn Canicula, a resident on Lindsay Street, shared her experience of the storm’s impact on her home, which may force her family to seek alternative accommodation as repairs are needed. She described the scene as resembling a movie, with power lines and trees scattered around the neighborhood. Despite the devastation, Canicula highlighted the community’s support, with neighbors coming together to assist in recovery efforts.
Approximately 4,000 customers in Winnipeg were left without power on Monday morning, with Manitoba Hydro’s Chura advising of ongoing restoration efforts. While repair crews worked tirelessly through the night, areas severely affected by the storm were warned to anticipate extended power outages. Hydro emphasized the importance of safety, urging the public to avoid downed power lines and report any hazards to emergency services.
As the region braces for potential further severe weather, Hydro stressed the need for caution and vigilance in navigating the aftermath of the storm, emphasizing the hidden dangers that downed trees may pose. The community was encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety during the recovery process.
