Update #2: All warning and alerts have ended across Chatham-Kent
Update: Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning as a powerful line of storms moves through southwestern Ontario Tuesday night.
As of 8:57 p.m. EDT, meteorologists were tracking a line of severe thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall. A tornado is also possible.
The storm system was located between 35 kilometres north of Windsor and 15 kilometres southeast of Point Pelee National Park, moving northeast at 60 km/h.
Areas potentially affected include Chatham, Belle River, Lakeshore, Wheatley Provincial Park, Tilbury, Wallaceburg, Blenheim, Rondeau Provincial Park, Ridgetown, Stoney Point, Comber, Walpole Island, Port Lambton, Elmdale, Sombra, Courtright, Wheatley, Lighthouse Cove, Mitchell’s Bay and Wilkesport.
Residents are advised to take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. The storm may cause local utility outages and damage to roofs, fences, soft shelters, and trees. Flying debris and hail could pose a risk of injury.
Emergency Management Ontario urges the public to seek shelter at the first sign of severe weather, particularly if funnel clouds, roaring winds, or flying debris are observed.
Environment Canada reminds the public that severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Warnings are issued when thunderstorms are imminent or occurring and expected to bring damaging hail, wind, or rain.
For updates, continue monitoring Environment Canada alerts. Severe weather can be reported by emailing ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or posting on X (formerly Twitter) using #ONStorm.
More preparedness tips are available at ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.
Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Chatham-Kent, including Rondeau Park, as a line of potentially dangerous storms is expected to move in from Michigan this evening.
The agency is warning of severe wind gusts reaching up to 100 kilometres per hour, with the possibility of a brief tornado forming under the right conditions. Residents are urged to be prepared for rapidly changing weather and take precautions.
The storms could lead to hazardous driving conditions, utility outages, and significant damage to property, buildings, and trees. Environment Canada reminds the public that lightning remains a serious threat: “When thunder roars, go indoors!”
Emergency Management Ontario advises taking cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Loose outdoor items should be secured ahead of the storm’s arrival.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, or heavy rain.
Updates will be provided as conditions evolve.
