Ottawa Valley under tornado watch this afternoon

OTTAWA VALLEY – Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Tornado Watch for the Ottawa Valley area.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes,” Environment Canada released in a statement this morning (May 27).  “Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible. A line or area of thunderstorms is expected to push eastward through eastern Ontario this afternoon. The main threats with these thunderstorms will be strong wind gusts and a tornado threat. In addition, the moist airmass will allow for storms to produce torrential downpours. This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.”

Environment Canada says there is potential for strong gusts of wind up to 90 kilometres per hour; a risk of tornadoes; and torrential downpours. The danger is expected sometime “this afternoon.”

“Be prepared for severe weather,” Environment Canada said. “Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.”

In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area, it is recommended you take the following actions:

• Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet.
• Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can.
• As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.

“Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year,” Environment Canada said. “Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors. Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.”