A storm hit Prince Edward Island on Wednesday afternoon, bringing severe weather conditions including high winds, hail, heavy rainfall, thunder, and lightning. The storm passed through Charlottetown around 1:40 p.m., causing power outages for numerous Maritime Electric customers, primarily in Charlottetown.
CBC meteorologist Ryan Snodden described the weather as tumultuous in central and eastern parts of the province, with slow-moving thunderstorms leading to intense rainfall, strong winds, and localized hail. Radar estimates indicated rainfall rates nearing 50 mm/h during the storm.
There were indications that a tornado likely touched down near Souris in eastern P.E.I. A video shared with CBC News showed trees being lifted into the air and the tornado becoming visible as it moved over the water.
Residents in Little Harbour, near Souris, witnessed the storm’s intensity, with Brielle Campbell noting spinning clouds and debris being lifted off the ground. Nearby, Blair Chapman described chaotic weather, with shrubs and trees uprooted and flying around, reminiscent of a scene from “The Wizard of Oz.”
The storm’s unpredictability was evident as residents experienced heavy rain followed by sunshine and then another downpour. Charlottetown police issued warnings about localized flooding in the city, leading to street closures in Sherwood and Parkdale areas. Some businesses and the sports center at UPEI also closed due to the severe weather conditions.