WC under severe thunderstorm watch

WEST CARLETON – For the rest of the afternoon (Aug. 29) and in to the evening, West Carleton will be under a severe thunderstorm watch.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail,” Environment Canada released in a statement this afternoon (Aug. 29). “Thunderstorms are expected to progress northeastward through this afternoon. The main hazard will be strong wind gusts, though hail up to nickel size is possible with the strongest storms. A tornado cannot be ruled out, especially over eastern Ontario.”

Environment Canada says the storm may produce wind gusts of 90 to 100 km/h, isolated hail up to nickel size and a tornado is possible.

“Large hail can damage property and cause injury,” Environment Canada said. “Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes.”