Update: A tornado watch ended in Chatham-Kent at 3:13 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023.
However, a severe thunderstorm watch was put in place instead.
Details, here.
A tornado watch was issued by Environment Canada at 9:27 a.m. on Wednesday April 5, 2023 across Chatham-Kent.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes,” forecasters say.
“Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible.”
Environment Canada says hazards, include: Wind gusts near 100 km/h, hail up to ping pong ball size and tornadoes.
The timing is late this morning into this afternoon.
“Thunderstorms are developing over Michigan and are expected to track eastward into Ontario,” forecasters say.
“As the Great Lakes are very cold, at this time there is a great deal of uncertainty as to how strong these thunderstorms will be as they cross into Ontario. Should the cold temperatures of the lakes be overcome, a strong line of thunderstorms that may produce tornadoes cannot be ruled out. Thunderstorms are expected to move east of the area late this afternoon.”
Be prepared for severe weather and take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches, Environment Canada officials added.
“In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area, it is recommended you take the following actions: Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet,” forecasters say.
“Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris. Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.”
Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes, forecasters added.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.
For more information: https://www.ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.
