Severe thunderstorm watch issued for southern Ontario

Southern Ontario residents can expect severe thunderstorms today.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the GTA including Mississauga, Brampton, Halton Region and Durham Region.

Hamilton has a severe thunderstorm warning.

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain, Environment Canada said in the watch notification.

The region could get torrential downpours with 50 mm falling within an hour, and strong winds gusting up to 90 km/h.

The storms are expected late this morning through this afternoon.

Large hail can damage property and cause injury.

Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles, Environment Canada warns.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads, much like southern Ontario experienced just a week ago.

Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.