TORONTO

Strong winds knock out power to thousands across southern Ontario

CTV Toronto Published Monday, November 24, 2014 8:17AM EST Last Updated Monday, November 24, 2014 11:07PM EST

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Strong winds downed a number of trees and cut power to thousands of people across much of southern Ontario Monday night.

Environment Canada issued a wind warning for Toronto and the surrounding region earlier in the day. The national weather agency said "very strong southwesterly winds" gusting near 100 km/h were blasting through much of southern Ontario. It was expected to diminish later Monday night, or Tuesday morning.

"Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage," Environment Canada said in a statement. "Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds."

Police temporarily closed a number of roads as a result of the windstorm. A section of Lakeshore Boulevard and Superior Avenue was closed as a result of flying debris.

Police also closed McCowan Road, between Ellesmere Road and Lawrence Avenue, due to a downed hydro pole. Three eastbound lanes of The Queensway, just west of Kipling Avenue, were also closed due to a downed hydro pole.

Power outages

At the height of the windstorm, Toronto Hydro said approximately 10,000 customers were without power in the west and north end of the city.

Across the province, Hydro One says approximately 87,000 customers at one point were left in the dark due to the high winds.

Meanwhile, outside of Toronto, the Ontario Provincial Police was also warning drivers to be careful on the roads.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: #Hwy140 near Netherby Road #Welland. Blowing debris on roadway. Be careful traveling through the area. ^az
— Ontario Prov Police (@OPP_GTATraffic) November 24, 2014

TRAFFIC HAZARD: #Hwy401 WB just before James Snow #Milton. Large debris in left lane. Use caution when approaching the area. ^az
— Ontario Prov Police (@OPP_GTATraffic) November 24, 2014

TRAFFIC HAZARD: #Hwy 407 EB just west of Markham Road. Construction sign has blown over in left lane. Be careful traveling in the area. ^az
— Ontario Prov Police (@OPP_GTATraffic) November 24, 2014

The following areas were also under a wind warning: