Montreal under severe thunderstorm watch as heavy rain falls

A person walks along a street during heavy rain in Montreal, Saturday, October 7, 2023. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes)

The Greater Montreal area is under a severe thunderstorm watch on Thursday, with heavy rain already falling across the city.

“Conditions this afternoon and evening will be favourable for the formation of severe thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) states. “A slight risk of a tornado is also associated with these thunderstorms.”

• READ MORE: Tens of thousands lose power in Montreal area amid thunderstorm

The agency warns that the wet weather could lead to power outages, as well as damage to roofs, fences, tree branches and soft shelters.

Nautical activities are highly discouraged, “due to sudden, severe wind gusts over bodies of water.”

Heavy rain can cause flash flooding and significant visibility reductions.

ECCC has classified its alert as moderate impact, with high forecast confidence.