Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Ottawa Valley for this afternoon and evening (May 22).
Officials say conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain. Possible hazards include 100 km/h wind gusts, a risk of toonie-sized hail, and a risk of a tornado.
Environment Canada’s warning reports that thunderstorms will develop along a cold front that will move through the province.
“Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water,” reads the notice.
The public is asked to please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.
(Sherry Haaima)