Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued in New Brunswick

Rainy and wet weather

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for much of New Brunswick.

The period of risk for thunderstorms extends from late Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday evening, approximately 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

While the thunderstorms are likely to be scattered in coverage, conditions are favourable for some to become severe. A severe thunderstorm can produce wind gusts to 90 km/h, quarter-size hail and downpours.

Communities near the border of New Brunswick and Maine will have the highest chance of seeing a thunderstorm. If a thunderstorm develops in your area, you should seek shelter indoors. Wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before heading out. Have a way of monitoring the latest issued watches and warnings as the situation with thunderstorms can change quickly.

The unstable conditions Wednesday are a result of a pool of cooler air aloft arriving behind the passing rain. Warm, humid air at the surface will rise into that cooler air, increasing updrafts and cloud development that eventually result in a thunderstorm.

Since daytime heating is a major component of these thunderstorms, as we move through the evening and the sun sets, the thunderstorms will diminish and end.

For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.