Tornado warning in effect in Ontario

Update: The red tornado warning was called off shortly before 5 p.m., while severe thunderstorm watches and warnings remain in place for much of southern and eastern Ontario.

A tornado warning has been issued with strong wind and hail possible east of Ottawa.

Environment Canada says it is tracking a thunderstorm that could cause a tornado over Curran, approximately 70 kilometres east of Ottawa.

A red tornado warning has been issued along with a severe thunderstorm watch. The storm is moving quickly to the northeast at 65 km/h and Riceville, Curran, Plantagenet and Alfred are all in the path.

Emergency Management Ontario recommends people in the impacted area seek shelter immediately if threatening weather approaches. Take cover in a basement, interior room, or a sturdy shelter when threatening weather approaches, the weather agency says.

If shelter isn’t available, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris. Anyone out on the water is urged to return to shore and seek shelter if possible, or move directly away from the path of the tornado.

“This is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation,” Environment Canada says.

“Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible.”

Western areas of the GTA, including Milton, Oakville, and Mississauga, were placed under a tornado warning on Saturday as a severe storm moved through the area.

Despite claims online, the Northern Tornadoes Project told INsauga.com that it is unlikely any tornado touched down on the weekend.

Environment Canada issues tornado warnings when a thunderstorm is producing or is likely to produce a tornado.