Ottawa under severe thunderstorm watch; nickel sized hail and torrential rain possible

Strong winds, torrential rain, and large hail.

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Ottawa, warning that conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms for Tuesday, July 16.

Thunderstorms are expected to track eastwards over eastern Ontario this afternoon, with wind gusts up to 90 km/h, local rainfall amounts up to 75 mm and nickel sized hail possible.

The weather agency says the primary threat with these thunderstorms is heavy rain, adding that rainfall warnings could also be issued. Heavy downpours could lead to flash floods and water pooling on roads.

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

The weather alert is in effect for a number of regions, including:

  • Ottawa-Gatineau
  • Smiths Falls
  • Perth
    Eastern Lanark County
    Richmond
    Metcalfe
    Merrickville-Wolford
    Kemptville
    Plevna
    Sharbot Lake
    Western Lanark County
    Prescott and Russell
    Winchester
    Newington
    Maxville
    Alexandria
    Gananoque
    Mallorytown
    Kingston
    Odessa
    Frontenac Islands
    Belleville

Source