4:34 p.m. update on severe thunderstorm advisories

Environment Canada advises, as of 4:34 p.m. Friday, severe thunderstorm warnings issued earlier today for Sault Ste. Marie, St. Joseph Island, Searchmont, Montreal River Harbour and Batchawana Bay have been downgraded to severe weather watches.

A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect in the Blind River - Thessalon area.

Here's how the weather office defines the difference between a thunderstorm warning and a watch:

Severe thunderstorm warningi

A severe storm has developed, producing one or more of the following conditions: heavy rain, damaging winds, hail of at least 20 mm in diameter or intense lightning. Severe thunderstorms may also produce tornadoes. The storm's expected motion and developments will be given in the warning. If you are in the area specified, take shelter indoors.

Severe thunderstorm watch

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms with large hail, heavy rain, intense lightning or damaging winds within the areas and times specified in the watch. You should secure or put away loose objects such as outdoor furniture, put your car in the garage, bring livestock to shelter and listen carefully for an updated weather report.