Environment Canada issues tornado watch for Ottawa-Gatineau

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which may produce tornadoes, Environment Canada says.

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which may produce tornadoes, Environment Canada says.

The weather forecaster has issued a tornado watch for Ottawa-Gatineau. Strong winds of up to 90 km/h, large hail and torrential rain are possible.

"A line or area of thunderstorms is expected to push eastward through eastern Ontario this afternoon. The main threats with these thunderstorms will be strong wind gusts and a tornado threat," the weather statement says.

"In addition, the moist airmass will allow for storms to produce torrential downpours."

Environment Canada says tornadoes are dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

"Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches," the statement reads.

A tornado watch is also in effect for the cities of Brockville, Perth, Smiths Falls, Cornwall and Kingston. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect in western Quebec for Upper Gatineau, Lièvre, Papineau and Mont-Tremblant.