A few weeks ago, an aggressive storm descended upon parts of southern Ontario. Local reports warned of severe weather all day, and as it approached, the alerts reported funnel clouds all around. As the rain fell, winds picked up considerably. I was listening to the weather channel. They repeatedly suggested that I visit the basement lest one of those funnel clouds turn into a full-blown tornado, as one had in the town of Durham earlier in the day. Sadly, it claimed an eleven year old victim. Still, I took my time.
As the storm blew through, the trees outside my window were swaying violently. Lightning flashed almost non-stop and the thunder which followed was frighteningly loud. I saw how dramatic the lightning appeared and tried to capture a photograph of it through my bedroom window. I slowed my shutter speed way down, thinking I could snap one of those nifty shots that you often see - of several impressive forks of lightning. I leaned the camera right into the glass, and pressed the shutter as soon as I saw the first flash. The immediate crash of thunder vibrated through the glass and made me jump. Perhaps I should make my way down at least to the main floor of the house.
I never did get one of those super-impressive lightning shots. All I got was rain.
It turned out that a tornado touched down in Vaughan, north of Toronto, and about 33 kilometers (20 miles) from here.
The rest of the evening remained calm but news reports were full of stories of destruction and devastation. My area got off easy, but still there was damage.
The following day, a walk revealed broken branches and brush throughout the park.
Parks' crews had already tended to some of the more serious damage, collected and placed now lifeless debris along the side of the path. (please click to enlarge)
This once-thriving tree took quite a blow. I wonder if it will survive such exposure to the upcoming winter winds and snow. (please click to enlarge)
Several branches had fallen into the lake where they'll most likely remain. (please click to enlarge)
Further along, Parks and Recreation crews were attending to a seriously damaged tree which grew almost horizontally out over the water. (please click to enlarge)
After several cuts and and snips, this charming tree is no more. (please click to enlarge)
It could have been so much worse. It was for others. The wrath of Nature shows no mercy.
This was a scheduled post. I'm up at the cottage with Frank for a few days. I'll be back soon to reply to your always-kind comments, and to visit your blogs.
