A series of weather watches are in effect across Ottawa and eastern Ontario, as severe storms move through the area.
A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Ottawa and the Renfrew, Arnprior and Calabogie area. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for an area stretching from Belleville to Cornwall and the Ottawa Valley.
Environment Canada says the conditions are “favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.” The weather statement warns areas could see “torrential downpours with 50 mm (of rain) falling within an hour” and wind gusts up to 90 km/h.
“At 2:52 p.m., Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing very strong wind gusts, toonie to ping pong ball size hail and heavy rain,” the weather agency said.
“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. 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.”
A system with heavy rain and thunderstorms stretches from Marmora to Ottawa, Renfrew and Pembroke. Another system moving along the St. Lawrence Seaway is bringing heavy rain to the Cornwall area.
A tornado warning was issued just before 2 p.m. for the Bancroft, Ont. area, but was lifted just before 3 p.m.
Ottawa weather
Environment Canada’s forecast calls for showers beginning this afternoon, with the risk of a thunderstorm. Ottawa could see 5 mm of rain. High 25 C, with the humidex making it feel like 33.
Showers ending near midnight, then cloudy with a 30 per cent chance of showers. Amount 10 to 15 mm of rain. Low 17 C.
Thursday will be cloudy with a 30 per cent chance of showers in the afternoon. High 23 C with the humidex making it feel like 28.
Friday will be sunny. High 27 C.
The outlook for Saturday calls for sunshine and a high of 28 C.
Sunday will be sunny with a high of 30 C.
The normal temperatures for this time of year are a high of 27 C and a low of 16 C.