Strong winds are ripping through Collingwood and Wasaga Beach Wednesday, causing extensive damage. Town officials say at around 12:30 p.m., a brief but intense wind, rain and hail storm came and went but left a mess for crews to clean up. They say there have been numerous downed trees and Public Works crews are working to clear them from roads and other areas. Officials advise the public to take caution when travelling and steer clear of downed trees and debris and where crews are working. Environment Canada confirms hail the size of 1.5 centimetres in diameter touched down in Collingwood. Officials at the national weather centre say they estimate the damage happened with winds gusting at around 90 kilometres per hour. As of Wednesday afternoon, officials say there has been no evidence of a tornado.
