The “Derecho” storm had 120 km per hour winds at Pearson Airport in Mississauga

Yesterday’s storm was one the most destructive, widespread and quick moving storms in Ontario’s history.

The storm yesterday was classified as a “derecho”.

What is the derecho you may ask?

Derechos are fast-moving bands of thunderstorms with destructive winds. The winds can be as strong as those found in hurricanes or even tornadoes! Unlike hurricanes and tornadoes, these winds follow straight lines.

Here is some more detailed info about how a derecho storm works.

Tragically, there were 5 fatalities reported from yesterday storm caused by trees being blown over.

The winds were ferocious yesterday and the wind speeds were unreal in these areas.

Here are the top wind speeds recorded from Environment Canada in Ontario in kilometers per hour:

Kitchener Waterloo Airport – 132
Ottawa International Airport – 120
Pearson Airport in Mississauga – 120
Brantford Airport – 104
Uxbridge – 100
Ottawa Central Experimental Farm – 93
Gatineau – 89
Oshawa Airport – 89
Toronto Island Airport – 89
Trenton – 83
Guelph – 83