A severe storm system swept through southern Manitoba on Tuesday night, spawning at least one confirmed tornado near Ste. Anne and leaving more than 25,000 customers without power. Environment Canada meteorologist Dan Fulton described the event as “chaos,” as torrential rain, high winds, and large hail caused widespread damage across the Red River Valley and into Winnipeg. Cleanup efforts are underway, though officials warn that power restoration and infrastructure recovery could extend into Thursday.
Storm impact and power outages
As of 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, Manitoba Hydro reported that approximately 25,000 customers remained affected by power outages across the province. In Winnipeg alone, nearly 17,000 residents were without electricity. The Crown corporation stated that the “scale and widespread nature of damage” means some residents should prepare for outages to continue through Thursday.
Did You Know? The storm produced significant hail in several communities, with grapefruit-sized hail reaching 100 mm in Otterburne and tennis-ball-sized hail reported in both Sanford and Winnipeg.
Infrastructure and emergency response
City of Winnipeg emergency management co-ordinator Mike Olczyk stated that crews are working to address a high volume of reports regarding property damage, downed trees, and sewer backups. By 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, the city’s 311 line had logged 137 reports of downed trees and debris, alongside 122 reports of raw sewage backups. Between 6:00 p.m. Tuesday and 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, 911 dispatchers received 851 calls, including 132 related to electrical hazards and 10 reports of possible structure fires.
In Stonewall, Mayor Sandra Smith reported that the community is dealing with significant overland flooding. She noted that current conditions are “much worse” than the flooding the town experienced in 2010. While the town’s water supply remains safe, officials are asking residents to limit water usage for up to 48 hours to assist the system’s recovery.
Future weather outlook
Environment Canada has issued warnings for a potential risk of severe weather again on Wednesday. While meteorologist Dan Fulton indicated that “this one doesn’t look as bad” as the Tuesday night system, he noted that the atmosphere still holds instability. Because much of the energy was depleted during the overnight outbreak, forecasters are focusing their monitoring efforts on the Red River Valley.
Expert Insight: The severity of this system is underscored by the contrast between the localized flooding in Stonewall and the broader, multi-community impact of the wind and hail. When infrastructure, such as sewer and water systems, is stressed simultaneously by record-level rainfall and power grid failures, the timeline for community recovery often stretches well beyond the initial weather event. The need for ongoing vigilance remains high as emergency crews transition from immediate 911 response to long-term debris management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there confirmed tornadoes from the storm?
Yes. Environment Canada has confirmed a tornado touched down near Ste. Anne. Officials are currently investigating other reports of tornadoes near Grunthal, Morris/Dufrost, and Otterburne.
How much rain did the region receive?
Rainfall totals varied, with more than 250 mm recorded in the Stonewall area. The Forks weather station in Winnipeg reported 122 mm, while Woodlands saw 120 mm.
Is the water safe to drink in affected areas?
In Stonewall, Mayor Sandra Smith confirmed that the town’s water treatment plants are functioning and the water supply remains safe for consumption, despite requests for residents to reduce usage.
How are you and your neighbors managing the cleanup efforts in your local area?