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'Slight risk for a tornado' east of the Sault, warns Environment Canada

Severe thunderstorms possible today with hail, heavy rain, strong winds
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Environment Canada is warning area residents of the potential of severe thunderstorms today that may produce hail, heavy rain, and damaging winds.

There is also the risk of a tornado across the Blind River, Espanola, Manitoulin Island region.

Full text of a weather statement issued today by Environment Canada follows:

Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for:
    •    Blind River - Thessalon
    •    Espanola - Killarney
    •    Manitoulin Island

Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

Hazards: Wind gusts of 90 km. 2-3 cm hail. Torrential downpours. Frequent cloud to ground lightning. Slight risk for a tornado.

Timing: Late morning and afternoon.

Discussion: A line of thunderstorms is expected to move eastward across Manitoulin Island and areas near the North Channel late this morning and this afternoon.

Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road. Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!

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.

The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to [email protected] or tweet reports using #ONStorm.


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