An epic round of thunderstorms rolled through Brandon on Sunday knocking down trees, flooding streets and basements, and touching off the downtown tornado siren.
According to Environment Canada’s website, the slow moving system dumped 155.5 mms of rain on Brandon – breaking a 118-year-old record of 141 mms on June 1, 1902.
Meteorologist Brad Vrolijk says no tornado was reported in Brandon, but they did get reports of possible twister damage to buildings near Rapid City – however, that’s not confirmed yet. He says “It takes a bit of a trained eye to see exactly the difference between straight line wind damage and tornado damage.” Investigators are expected to head to the area today.
Meanwhile, a State of Emergency has been declared in the Rrural Municipality of Oakview, northwest of Brandon, which includes the communities of Oak River, Cardale, Rapid City and Basswood.
Officials say roads have also been washed out and residents are being asked to stay home.
Vrolick says expect another round of thunderstorms today and tomorrow – and a heat warning for southern Manitoba is currently in effect.