Severe thunderstorms rumbled through western Manitoba on Sunday, impacting areas still recovering from previous storms, with a powerful tornado catching the attention of storm chaser Aaron Jayjack. Jayjack described the tornado as one of the strongest he has witnessed in Canada, expressing relief that there were no fatalities.
The tornado, confirmed by Environment and Climate Change Canada, touched down southwest of Rossburn, approximately 275 kilometres west of Winnipeg. Reports are also being investigated regarding another possible tornado near Roblin. Jayjack, who had been tracking storm cells throughout the day, witnessed the rapid formation of the tornado, progressing from a minor disturbance to a significant twister in a short span.
The tornado caused significant damage, narrowly missing some homes but directly impacting a farmhouse. Jayjack, after assessing the damage and ensuring the safety of the residents, noted the destructive impact on the affected properties.
Barb McIvor, who captured images of the tornado, described the sight as astonishing but expressed sympathy for the affected family. Emergency responders and local officials, including Rossburn Fire Department Chief Kelly Slon and Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk, highlighted the extensive damage caused by the tornado, including the destruction of historical buildings and properties.
Efforts are underway to assist the affected individuals, with plans for potential local emergency declarations and support from the municipality. The aftermath of the tornado, estimated to be an EF3 on the enhanced Fujita scale, will be further assessed by the Northern Tornadoes Project for a damage rating.
The storm system also brought hail and strong winds to various areas, with more unsettled weather predicted for the coming days. The community remains vigilant amid the ongoing severe weather patterns and the recent series of destructive storms in the region.