Severe thunderstorm watch in effect in northeastern Ont.

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm warning for several communities in northeastern Ontario on Wednesday afternoon.

The warning includes areas near Kapuskasing, Hearst, Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores, Timmins, Cochrane, Iroquois Falls, Chapleau and Gogama.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” Environment Canada said in the warning.

Hazards include wind gusts up to 90 km/h, nickel size hail, risk of a tornado and heavy rainfall this afternoon and evening.

“Conditions are also favourable for a tornado risk across the region,” the warning said.

“Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles.”

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Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms.

To report severe weather, send an email to [e-mail] or tweet reports using #ONStorm.