Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Gananoque and the Thousand Islands, with forecasters warning conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous storms later today.
The watch is in effect from late this morning through early this evening. Meteorologists say thunderstorms could produce damaging wind gusts between 90 and 110 kilometres per hour, heavy rainfall exceeding 50 millimetres in some locations, and hail ranging from quarter to ping pong ball size.
The main threats are expected to be torrential downpours and strong winds. Areas that experience multiple thunderstorms could see localized flooding due to significant rainfall amounts. Utility outages are also possible, while strong winds may damage trees, fences, roofs and temporary structures.
Environment Canada is reminding residents that lightning can be deadly and advises people to move indoors immediately when thunderstorms approach.
Motorists should be prepared for reduced visibility and water-covered roads during heavy rain and are urged to drive according to changing weather conditions.
(By: Tim Baltz)
