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We know opposites attract, but when it happens in nature, the results can be deadly. We explain.

Southern Ontario drizzle sparks 'flashover' phenom


Jaclyn Whittal
Meteorologist

Thursday, March 20, 2014, 7:32 PM -

A recent photo by storm chaser Tom Stefanac has been making the rounds on Twitter.

His image features an electrical transformer on fire in the Vaughan area. It's one of many that burst into flames Wednesday evening in southern Ontario.


RELATED: Take a peek into the long-range with our official spring outlook


So, what happened? 

Well, for starters, Wednesday brought messy weather to southern Ontario.

A combination of drizzle in the atmosphere and salt spray left over from previous snowstorms coated some transformers, sparking electrical fires.

Numerous outages were reported across the region, from St. Catharines, to Hamilton and through the GTA.

At one point, more than 20,000 people were without power in Toronto alone -- but by Thursday evening, service had been restored to most customers.


RELATED: When will spring-like weather arrive?


ANOTHER STORM TARGETS THIS PROVINCE THIS WEEKEND

Some residents were hoping Wednesday would represent winter's last hurrah, but we've got news for you: The wintry weather isn't prepared to let up anytime soon.

In fact, forecasters are keeping an eye on the next storm that's targeting the region.

A messy mix is on track for the Greater Toronto Area late Friday evening into Saturday.

Part of the GTA could see up to 15 cm of snow, in addition to some freezing rain.

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