Web posted on August 19, 2005

Wellington County O.P.P. - Shortly before 1:38pm this afternoon Wellington County O.P.P. received reports of a possible tornado touching down in the Mapleton area. There were reports of several cottages damaged in the Conestoga Lake area as well as many trees down.

Shortly following that incident police received a report of a possible tornado touching down in the Fergus area as well as West Garafraxa Township. Several homes and barns were damaged also numerous trees and hydro wires were down.

No injuries have been reported. Hydro One has reported that over 1000 consumers in the Wellington county area are still without power as of 6:00pm.

The O.P.P. have activated their emergency action plan, and hydro crews and members of the works department are working diligently to clear roadways and restore power to the affected areas.

The Mayor of Centre Wellington has declared a state of emergency and has notified Emergency Management Ontario requesting their assistance.

Environment Canada has issued another tornado warning until 6:00pm. Should you see a tornado approaching, take cover inside a building preferably in the basement and stay underneath a door frame. Roads should be re-opened soon and hydro will advise when power is restored.