Thousands of Toronto Hydro customers are without power as the city remains under a severe thunderstorm watch and a special weather statement on Tuesday evening.
According to Toronto Hydro Toronto’s outage map, the number of customers in the dark is more than 20,000.
Environment Canada said in the watch that “dangerous” thunderstorms could produce “damaging” wind gusts and large hail.
Wind gusts could reach as high as 110 km/h, while the hail could be four centimetres in diameter. There is also a risk of a tornado, the weather agency said.
Earlier on Tuesday, the weather prompted Scotiabank Area to ask fans to leave the tailgate party at Maple Leaf Square, ahead of Game 5 between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators.
The tailgate has been reopened and fans are now reportedly back into the square.
Toronto police said they received reports shortly after 6 p.m. that construction materials were blowing off buildings due to strong winds at Dovercourt Road and Bloor Street W. Residents were urged to use caution when walking or driving in the area.
The severe thunderstorm watch is expected to be in place until early Tuesday evening.
“Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road,” Environment Canada said in the watch.
“Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. Stay indoors when a thunderstorm strikes. There isn’t a place outside that is safe during a thunderstorm.”
Winds forecast to diminish by early evening
According to the special weather statement, strong southwest winds are expected to sweep the city Tuesday afternoon. There could be frequent gusts to 80 km/h. The statement is in place until early Tuesday evening.
“Motorists, especially in high profile vehicles, may expect hazardous driving conditions on highways subject to strong cross winds.”
The winds are expected to diminish Tuesday evening as the cold front moves through.
