The Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP) is sending a team to conduct a ground/drone survey of the damage in Blenheim area on Thursday morning, after a storm ripped through the region on Wednesday evening, July 26, 2023.
NTP officials say other reports of damage, or any tornado reports, from the area can be sent to ntp@uwo.ca or entered through their web form at http://uwo.ca/ntp.
“Craziness,” South Kent Councillor Anthony Ceccacci posted on social media.
“So much carnage. I’ve never saw anything like this. Things can be replaced, people can not. Glad for the most part everyone seems ok.”
Meanwhile, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent is dealing with the aftermath of the storm.
Municipal officials say Evergreen Cemetery is closed due to the weather emergency.
“Evergreen Cemetery in Blenheim is currently closed to the public until further notice due to damage caused by the storm on July 26, 2023,” Municipal officials said on social media.
“Barricades have been placed at each entrance. Cemetery staff and Public Works staff are currently assessing damage caused to trees and power lines in the vicinity. Once the danger risks have been cleared, the site will be reopened to the public. Thank you for your patience as staff work towards ensuring that the site is safe for the public.”
Municipal officials say the Ridgetown Municipal Centre is also temporarily closed to the public until further notice due to a power outage.
“Crews are working to restore power, and the office will be reopened as soon as power is restored,” Municipal officials said on social media.
“Thank you for your patience.”
Entegrus officials said on Wednesday night that a total of 1,444 customers in Ridgetown were without power after the storm.
Just before midnight, Entegrus officials said power had been restored except for Aberdeen Street, Marsh Street and Broadway Avenue.
“Due to extensive damage, restoration time will be (Thursday) afternoon,” Entegrus officials posted on social media.
Power was also out in parts of Wallaceburg for 35 customers.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority issued a watershed conditions statement on Wednesday before the storm hit as well. Details, here.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue issued some reminders to residents on what to do when hazardous weather approaches. Details, here.
