Toronto Hydro is currently facing significant challenges as thousands of residents remain without power following severe storms that swept through the region on Wednesday evening. As of a 10 p.m. update, the utility reported that approximately 30,000 customers have had their power restored, although at the height of the storm almost 65,000 customers experienced outages.

The utility company noted that crews are actively assessing the damage caused by the storms; however, due to the extensive number of outages across the city, the information available on their outage map is considered preliminary. They stated that this data will be “refined as crews arrive on site, assess damage and determine the repairs required.” Toronto Hydro expressed gratitude towards customers for their patience and understanding as restoration efforts continue throughout the night and into the following day.

Compounding the situation, power outages have also been reported at notable locations such as the Eaton Centre and Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) campus. In response to the unfolding crisis, the City of Toronto activated its Emergency Operations Centre earlier that morning. Mayor Olivia Chow confirmed that city crews were dispatched to respond to various storm-related issues, including downed power lines and fallen trees.

Toronto Police have reported multiple incidents of downed wires and trees across several areas of the city. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are urging citizens to remain patient as they navigate these challenges. Authorities are advising drivers to exercise caution and reduce their speed while traveling in affected areas.

In light of the storm's impact, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) closed its grounds at 7 p.m., and concerts scheduled for Wednesday evening at the Bandshell have been cancelled. Additionally, a concert featuring TLC and Salt-N-Pepa at the RBC Amphitheatre, which was slated to take place that night, has been cancelled and rescheduled for September 11.

Air travel has also been disrupted, with numerous delays and cancellations reported at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Travelers planning to fly on Wednesday evening are encouraged to check the status of their flights prior to heading to the airport, given the ongoing weather-related concerns.