Two confirmed tornadoes caused damage around London, Ontario, during severe thunderstorms on Tuesday, May 19.
The storms brought strong winds, downed trees, and left tens of thousands of homes and businesses without power. Severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings were issued across the region.
Researchers from Western University’s Northern Tornadoes Project confirmed two tornadoes after surveying damage. The first was a weak EF-0 tornado near Christina, about 20 km southwest of London. The second was a stronger EF-1 tornado that travelled from Lambeth to Mossley, including parts of southern London.
Officials also said damage in East London was caused by a downburst with winds up to 145 km/h.
These storms bring Canada’s total tornado count to 10 this year. Ontario has had two tornadoes so far, while the Prairies have seen eight landspouts. Canada typically averages about 65 tornadoes each year.
