Severe thunderstorm watch for Ottawa, Valley May 22

OTTAWA VALLEY – Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the City of Ottawa and says tornadoes may be possible further up the Valley.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” Environment Canada released in a statement this afternoon (May 22).

The public weather prognosticators are saying wind gusts up to 90 kilometres per hour and toonie-sized hail is possible this afternoon in to this evening.

“Thunderstorms will develop along a cold front that will move through the province this afternoon and evening,” Environment Canada staff said. “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.”

The watch also includes parts of Renfrew and Chelsea, and stretches north toward Algonquin Park.

“A tornado will also be possible,” Environment Canada said. “Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors. Emergency Management Ontario recommends you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall.”

To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca. For more information: ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.