Peterborough and the Kawarthas Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Peterborough and the Kawarthas are under a severe thunderstorm watch that can take effect on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Jay Callaghan.

Conditions favour developing severe thunderstorms that may produce strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain according to Environment Canada.

Wind gusts of around 100 km/h could accompany toonie-sized hail. The risk of a tornado is highest this afternoon and evening.

Thunderstorms will develop along a cold front moving through the province this afternoon and evening. The main threats will be strong winds and hail but tornados are also possible.

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. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Environment Canada advises that water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

Residents are urged to go indoors then thunder roars for risk of lightning.

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