Northeastern Ont. under a severe thunderstorm watch

Many areas in northeastern Ontario are under a severe thunderstorm watch, Environment Canada said Wednesday.

Many areas in northeastern Ontario are under a severe thunderstorm watch, Environment Canada said Wednesday. (File)Communities affected include areas near Timmins, North Bay, Parry Sound, Kapuskasing, Hearst, Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores, Temagami, Moosonee and Fort Albany

“Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing strong gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” the alert from Environment Canada said.

“Gusts to 100 km/h, hail the size of a $2 coin, risk of tornado.”

The thunderstorms will develop along a cold front that will cross the province Wednesday afternoon. The main risks associated with these storms are strong winds and hail.

“However, there is also a risk of tornadoes,” the alert said.

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“Large hail can damage property and cause injuries. Strong gusts can throw loose objects, damage flimsy buildings, tear branches from trees and overturn large vehicles. Torrential rains can cause flash flooding and accumulation of water on roads.”

A severe thunderstorm watch is issued when atmospheric conditions are conducive to the formation of thunderstorms that could be accompanied by at least one of the following: large hail, destructive winds or torrential rain.

To report severe weather, email [e-mail].