Update #2: The rainfall warning has also ended.
Update: The rainfall warning remains in place as of 4:25 p.m. However, the severe thunderstorm watch has ended across Chatham-Kent.
Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning and a severe thunderstorm watch in Chatham-Kent.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and heavy rain,” Environment Canada officials say, adding hazards, include: Wind gusts up to 100 km/h, hail to 2 to 3 cm in diameter and locally heavy rainfall.
“There is also the risk of an isolated tornado.”
The timing is this morning into early this afternoon.
“Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles,” forecasters say.
“Hail is also possible. Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm that develops. Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors.
Forecasters added: “Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. 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.”
“Heavy rainfall from showers and thunderstorms is expected today,” forecasters said in the rainfall warning.
“For information concerning flooding, please consult your local Conservation Authority or Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry office. Visit Ontario.ca/floods for the latest details. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.”
Forecasters say hazards, include: Locally heavy rainfall in excess of 50 mm with isolated amounts approaching 75 mm.
The timing is through today.
“Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada,” forecasters added.
“To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.”
For more information: ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.
