Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Ottawa-Gatineau Region

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the Ottawa-Gatineau region by Environment Canada, warning of hazardous thunderstorms with hail, heavy downpours, and wind gusts up to 100 km/h. The watch covers most of Eastern Ontario and parts of Western Quebec. Residents are advised to stay indoors and take cover in a basement during threatening weather.

Environment Canada (EC) has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Ottawa-Gatineau region, warning of hazardous thunderstorms with hail, heavy downpours, and wind gusts up to 100 km/h. The watch, which covers most of Eastern Ontario and parts of Western Quebec, was issued Sunday morning to alert residents of potential severe weather conditions [1].

The severe thunderstorm watch was issued due to favorable conditions for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind, and rain [2]. EC advises the public to stay indoors and take cover in a basement during threatening weather. Strong winds can damage trees, buildings, and overturn vehicles, while large hail can cause significant damage and injury.

The watch includes the areas of Ottawa North, Kanata, Orléans, Arnprior, Bon Echo Provincial Park, Kaladar, Plevna, Lanark, Fitzroy Provincial Park, Carleton Place, Carp, and Kanata. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor local weather alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada [1].

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favorable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind, or rain. A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when there is evidence that a thunderstorm is imminent or occurring [2].

Residents are encouraged to report severe weather by sending an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or posting reports on X using #ONStorm. For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the Ontario government's website [1].

References:
[1] https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/report_e.html?onrm104
[2] https://ca.news.yahoo.com/severe-thunderstorm-watch-effect-ottawa-154413866.html