WEST CARLETON – Environment Canada has issued a tornado watch for the Ottawa and Lanark County.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes,” Environment Canada released in a statement minutes ago (2:41 p.m., Aug. 2).

Environment Canada says risks include “a couple tornadoes” and “scattered damaging wind gusts to 100 km/h.”

Areas under watch include portions of central and eastern Ontario, including Haliburton, Bancroft, Ottawa and Lanark County.

The watch is expected to be in place now in to this evening.

“Remember, a tornado watch means conditions are favourable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms,” Environment Canada said. “Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for possible warnings.”

If you witness threatening weather, take cover immediately.