Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for southern Ontario

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of southern Ontario.

Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts and large hail Tuesday, Environment and Climate Change Canada said in the watch statement issued just before 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

The watch is in effect for Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Halton Hills and Milton.

A line of severe thunderstorms over southwestern Ontario will continue to move through the province. The storm is expected to hit the GTA area early Tuesday evening and overnight.

It could bring wind gusts up to 100 km/h and toonie sized hail.

There is also a lesser risk of a tornado.

Power outages are likely and very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road.

Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

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

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds or torrential rainfall.

Lead photo: Andre Furtado