Thunder Bay

Tornado warning issued for Savant Lake, Sturgeon Lake in northwestern Ontario

A tornado warning has been issued for Savant Lake and Sturgeon Lake in northwestern Ontario. Here's the latest from Environment and Climate Change Canada on how to stay safe.

Winds gusting up to 90 km/h, toonie-sized hail possible

This image was posted on the Ontario Storm Watch Facebook page, with the poster saying the photo was taken near Lucan, Ont. Environment Canada said they briefly issued a tornado warning after storm chasers reported seeing a funnel cloud in the area at around 3:30 p.m. on Monday.
A file photo posted on the Ontario Storm Watch Facebook page from June 30, 2025 near Lucan, Ont. A tornado warning has been issued for Savant Lake and Sturgeon Falls as of Friday just after 6 p.m. EST. (Facebook: Ontario Storm Watch)

A tornado warning has been issued for Savant Lake and Sturgeon Lake in northwestern Ontario.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued the warning just after 6 p.m. EST.

"A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado is located near Whiterock Lake, moving northeast at 50 km/h," the warning says. "Locations impacted include Lake of Bays, Whiterock Lake, Sturgeon Lake and O'Briens Landing."

Winds gusting up to 90 km/h, as well as toonie-sized hail, is possible. 

"This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take shelter immediately," the warning says.

Residents are urged to go to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows — such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet.

"Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris," the warning says. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Law

Reporter

Sarah Law is a CBC News reporter based in Thunder Bay, Ont., and has also worked for newspapers and online publications elsewhere in the province. Have a story tip? You can reach her at sarah.law@cbc.ca