Haliburton County residents are being told to prepare for another potential serious weather event, with Environment Canada projecting severe thunderstorms across Southern Ontario starting April 29.
The federal authority, in a media release Monday afternoon, is forecasting wind gusts up to 110 km/h, two-to-four centimetres of hail, and rain. It says there’s also a risk for tornadoes.
The weather system is blowing in from the U.S. Midwest, Environment Canada says.
“Confidence is increasing in severe thunderstorm development… despite strong forcing to trigger the storms, confidence is moderate due to the possibility of morning convection using some of the energy in the atmosphere,” it wrote in a forecast update at 4 p.m. Monday.
Many in Haliburton County are still feeling the effects of last month’s ice storm, which left more than 6,500 residences without power.
The Town of Minden has been in a state of emergency since March 31. In an update April 28, the township told people to brace for further bad weather this week. It indicated flooding was a concern.
“This weather has the potential to impact on our high-water levels in area lakes and rivers. Also, the winds may affect our fragile forest and trees… many trees were damaged during the storm. Damaged overhead branches can pose a serious danger.
“The community is reminded to be aware of surroundings when cleaning up your property or spending time outdoors. Use caution around trees,” the township said.
Parks Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources continue to monitor water levels and weather conditions, though has stopped short of issuing any alerts as of press time.
Should banks break, the township is offering sandbags and sand at the Minden Curling Club parking lot and Irondale Community Centre.
Minden Hills mayor Bob Carter is reminding people to have 72-hour emergency kits at home just in case. Some suggested items include non-perishable food, water, battery-powered radio and flashlight, first aid kit, toiletries, cash, and warm clothing/footwear.
The Haliburton Highlands OPP is also urging people to stay vigilant and safe during this projected storm. Cst. Rob Adams said the detachment is still hearing about downed power lines and fallen/damaged trees, saying the potential for high winds could cause further damage.
“Residents are advised to avoid these hazards… caution is also urged when walking near trees, or when clearing brush… high winds could lead to additional falling trees and debris,” Adams said.
The force also offered some flood safety tips, advising people to stay away from fast moving water, avoid driving through flooded roads, and pay attention to local weather updates.
Minden Hills Residents in extreme financial hardship due to storm impacts may be able to access emergency assistance through Ontario’s social assistance programs. Applications can be made online at Ontario.ca/page/apply-emergency-assistance.
