Severe weather watch for Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton and Halton

Some very stormy weather is in the forecast for later this afternoon and evening (July 1).

If you’ve planned to head outdoors today with family and friends to celebrate Canada Day—it looks like it will rain on your parade, (quite literally) as Environment Canada has called for a severe thunderstorm affecting Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton and Halton.

The advisory warns residents to prepare themselves for strong gusts of wind up to 90 km/h, nickel to toonie-sized hail, and heavy rain.

“Large hail pellets can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Torrential downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads,” the statement read.

Residents are advised to steer clear of water-related activities as they may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

According to Environment Canada lightning kills and injures Canadians every year and residents are being reminded to take cover with the saying, “remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”

The Emergency Management Ontario also recommends that individuals should immediately find a safe place that will protect them from threatening weather conditions.