Canada: Tornado hits parts Ottawa and Quebec September 21

Event

A tornado moved through parts of Ottawa and Quebec at approximately 17:45 (local time) on Friday, September 21, causing damages and injuries. According to officials, the tornado touched down in Dunrobin, a community on Ottawa’s west end, then moved east across the Ottawa River into Gatineau Park. At least two people sustained serious injuries in Dunrobin, while dozens of minor injuries were also reported. Emergency officials said that around 30 to 40 homes were damaged and at least 147,000 people in the area have been impacted by power outages. Recovery efforts are ongoing as of Friday evening and power disruptions are expected to continue into Saturday, September 22, as lines are repaired.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities. The safest place to be in a building in the event of a tornado is in the basement or on the ground floor, or in an interior hallway or stairwell. Avoid doors, windows, and walls. If a tornado is approaching, crouch face down as low as possible to the floor and cover your head with your hands, or a mattress if possible, to protect your head from falling debris.