Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Greater Sudbury area

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Northeastern Ontario long weekend brings mixed weather

Sudburians urged to make 72-hour emergency kits

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Greater Sudbury and vicinity, warning of conditions favourable for storms capable of producing wind gusts up to 100 km/h, hail the size of toonies and a risk of tornadoes on Victoria Day.

The yellow alert was declared shortly after 12:30 p.m. on May 18.

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind or rain.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail,” the weather agency said in its alert.

The storms are expected to develop this afternoon and continue into the evening.

Thunderstorms moving in from U.S.

Meteorologists said thunderstorms currently over lower Michigan are expected to intensify this afternoon and move eastward into the area.

The weather agency said the main hazard will be damaging wind gusts.

“A tornado cannot be ruled out,” said Environment Canada.

Authorities advise that local utility outages are possible and the storms may damage roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters.

Safety recommendations

Environment Canada issued a blunt warning to area residents.

“When thunder roars, go indoors,” said the weather agency, adding that lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.

Emergency Management Ontario recommends that people take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.

For more information, visit ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.

“Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada,” said the weather agency.

To report severe weather, send an email to [e-mail] or post reports on X using hashtag #ONStorm.