Windsor and LaSalle are offering branch pickup services following the powerful storms that swept through the region on July 3, 2026. The storms left a trail of toppled trees, flooded streets, and significant property damage across Windsor-Essex County.
Storm Damage and Cleanup Efforts
The Town of LaSalle announced that residents can place branches and tree debris at the curb for collection, with crews working to clear the material as quickly as possible. Windsor also launched a similar program, urging residents to separate branches from other storm debris. The cleanup comes after what officials in Tecumseh described as a 1-in-100-year storm event, with rainfall amounts exceeding 100 mm in some areas.
In addition to branch pickup, both municipalities are assessing damage to public infrastructure, including roads, parks, and drainage systems. Emergency crews have been working around the clock since the storm hit, clearing fallen trees and restoring power to thousands of households.
Impact on Residents and Infrastructure
The storms caused widespread power outages, with Hydro One reporting over 50,000 customers without electricity at the peak. Many residents were left without power for more than 24 hours. Flooded basements and damaged vehicles were also common, with emergency services responding to numerous calls for assistance.
“This is one of the most severe storms we’ve seen in decades,” said LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy in a statement. “Our priority is ensuring the safety of our residents and restoring normalcy as quickly as possible.”
According to Environment Canada, the storm system produced wind gusts up to 100 km/h, heavy rain, and hail in some areas. The agency had issued severe thunderstorm warnings ahead of the event, but the intensity caught many off guard.
Long-Term Recovery and Support
Both Windsor and LaSalle have set up information hotlines for residents seeking assistance with cleanup or reporting damage. The Ontario government has also pledged support, with local MPPs calling for disaster relief funding to help affected homeowners and businesses.
Residents are advised to check municipal websites for updated pickup schedules and guidelines. Officials remind everyone to avoid downed power lines and report any hazards to local authorities.
