Prince Edward Island hit by rare tornado and severe storms

A severe storm hit Prince Edward Island on Wednesday, August 26, bringing heavy rain, hail, and high winds. Environment Canada confirmed that a rare tornado touched down in the eastern part of the province, likely near Souris. Witnesses reported seeing trees being uprooted and thrown into the air.

The intense weather caused significant disruptions, including power outages for thousands of Maritime Electric customers, primarily in Charlottetown. Local authorities also warned of localized flooding throughout the city.

At the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, heavy rain and hail damaged a roof pipe, causing water to enter an operating room and triggering a Code Red response. As a precaution, the hospital diverted expectant mothers and other patients to the Prince County Hospital in Summerside. While some surgeries were cancelled, the damage was repaired by Thursday morning.