WC under severe thunderstorm watch

WEST CARLETON – In what seems like an unprecedented summer of strong weather, West Carleton finds itself under another Severe Thunderstorm Watch.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” Environment Canada released in a statement around 11:17 a.m. today (July 28).

Environment Canada says wind gusts up to 90 kilometres-per-hour, nickel size hail and heavy downpours are possible this afternoon and evening.

“Thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon ahead of a cold front tracking through the area,” Environment Canada said. “The main threats with these storms will be strong wind gusts up to 90 km/h and hail up to nickel size.”

Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road.

“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,” Environment Canada said.