Wow! What a Storm!
2013-07-25
It’s been one week since hurricane-like winds swept through Kitchener-Waterloo, leaving a trail of destruction in their path. Thousands of residents were left without power due to extreme weather and damaged hydro lines.
Thankfully, there were no major injuries, though many trees across the region were damaged or uprooted.
🧹 After the Storm: Cleanup and Community
Like many local families, Stephen McDonald, General Manager of Afterglow, spent the days following the storm helping with the cleanup.
“We had over a dozen trees in our neighbourhood go down,” Stephen shared. “The damages are unfortunate, but it’s incredible to see everyone in our community come together to help.”
His sons, Sacha and Rowan, even had some post-storm fun with a photo shoot among the fallen branches.
🫱 Neighbours Helping Neighbours
Several neighbourhoods came together quickly after the storm.
“We had five homeowners band together to help out — including helping the recently widowed lady down the street,” Stephen said.
“It just goes to show — many hands really do make light work.”
This kind of community support is what makes Kitchener-Waterloo feel like home.
💸 Damage Estimates & Recovery
According to Wilf Meston, Vice-President of Operations at Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro, the total repair bill for the city of Kitchener alone was around $300,000.
“Many areas experienced the same level of damage,” Stephen noted.
“But in KW, we’re fortunate to have a community that works together.”
When storms roll in, it’s the strength of the community that shines the brightest.
Afterglow. Water, warmth, well-being.