Storm devastates Limerick, Tudor and Cashel and surrounding areas

By Mike Riley

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A powerful storm that went through southern Ontario on Saturday May 21 causing a lot of damage in Limerick and Tudor and Cashel Townships, including uprooted trees, property damage and downed power lines. Both townships declared a state of emergency over the weekend as a result. Areas surrounding Limerick and Tudor and Cashel were also affected by the storm. Limerick's clerk and treasurer Victoria Tisdale talks about the effect of the storm and the current status of the township as they assess the damage, clean up and work to get the hydro back on.

The storm that ripped through Ontario and Quebec on May 21 was known as a derecho, which is a powerful windstorm that's long lasting and widespread. Climatologists describe them as having tornado or hurricane-force winds, which can meet or exceed 120 kilometres per hour.

Tisdale told Bancroft This Week on May 23 that the storm has devastated the communities, that there's been a lot of property damage and that all the townships have been working to get the roads opened enough to be passable.

“Volunteers from all over have pitched in and it has been incredible to see the community come together. At this time there is no word on when power will be fully restored. Some areas have already gotten hydro back, but other areas are going to take time,” she says.

If Limerick residents need to get in touch with the township, here are the contact phone numbers; clerk and treasurer Victoria Tisdale at 316-334-2725, roads supervisor Greg Maxwell at 613-332-8878 and fire chief Jason Gear at 613-922-6766.

Tudor and Cashel residents can call CAO Nancy Carrol at 613-474-2583 and roads superintendent Glenn Hagerman at 613-474-2798. For any emergencies of course, call 911.

According to Hydro One's power outage map at www.hydroone.com/power-outages-and-safety/stormcentre-outage-map/ the utility is still assessing the damage in Limerick and Tudor and Cashel Townships as of May 23, and will have more details for customers soon. Anyone without power can call Hydro One at any time at 1-800-434-1235. Unfortunately, Tudor and Cashel Township did not respond to a request for comment by press time.

Tisdale says that Limerick just had an outdoor water tap installed for anyone that needs water and it is located at the Limerick Community Centre on Hwy 620. She says both Wollaston and Tudor and Cashel also provide this outdoor water tap service for their residents. According to a May 23 posting on the Limerick Township Facebook page, staff will be working from the community centre from May 24 to 27 to help residents that come by and require assistance.

Tisdale says that crews will be working for the next few weeks to get the roads in the township back to normal.

“In the meantime, a huge thank you goes out to everyone who has pitched in to help their neighbours and community.”