UPDATE | Tornado warning issued for Fort Erie and surrounding areas

Brent Jones
September 9, 2024 at 4:34 PM

UPDATE | September 9, 2024, 5:16 p.m.: Tornado warning no longer in effect as of 4:37 p.m.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a tornado warning for parts of Niagara, including Fort Erie.

As of 4:22 p.m., meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm that may produce a tornado, accompanied by damaging winds and large hail. Wind gusts of up to 90 km/h are possible.

The storm is moving southeast at 50 km/h and poses a threat to several areas in and around Fort Erie, including Crystal Beach and Stevensville. Residents are urged to take immediate precautions, as this is a potentially life-threatening situation.

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant damage, including tossing loose objects, breaking tree branches, damaging weak structures, and overturning large vehicles.

Tornado warnings are issued when thunderstorms are likely to produce or are already producing tornadoes.

Recommended safety actions:

Seek shelter indoors immediately if you observe threatening weather.
Move to the lowest floor of your home, away from windows and exterior walls.
Avoid mobile homes and vehicles, as they offer limited protection. If no secure building is nearby, lie in a low-lying area and protect your head from flying debris.

Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.