Tornado and severe thunderstorms possible for part of Ontario

A weather watch warning of severe thunderstorms and a potentially “brief” tornado has been issued for southwestern Ontario.

Today, Environment Canada issued weather alerts for Brant County, Chatham-Kent, Haldimand, Kitchener-Waterloo, Perth County, Sarnia, Simcoe, Stratford, London, Woodstock, Windsor and other communities in the region, warning that conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.

According to the watch, wind gusts of up to 90 km/h are possible, as well as toonie-size hail and a “brief tornado” that could materialize if the storms intensify.

Storms are forecast for this afternoon and evening, with showers and thunderstorms expected to intensify early this afternoon.

Local power outages are possible, according to Environment Canada.

If threatening weather approaches, residents are advised to take cover in a basement or interior room. Loose objects should be secured if possible.