WEST CARLETON – Environment Canada is calling for severe thunderstorms in the area this afternoon (May 23).

“Thunderstorms are expected to develop over Eastern Ontario this afternoon ahead of an approaching cold front,” Environment Canada released in an advisory today. “As of early afternoon, there is extensive cloud cover across the region which may limit the intensity of the thunderstorms. However, if clearing occurs, the severe weather threat may increase. Wind gusts up to 100 km/h would be the main threat, although large hail is also possible. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.”

The severe thunderstorm threat will end this evening. 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.

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.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.

For more information, click here.