Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Winnipeg and much of southern Manitoba

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Winnipeg and a wide area of southern Manitoba as a cold front moves through the region Thursday afternoon and evening.

The watch, issued at 1:41 p.m., also covers communities including Selkirk, Portage la Prairie, Steinbach, Morden, Gimli, the Whiteshell, and areas as far north as Berens River and Little Grand Rapids.

Forecasters say conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail, heavy rain, and dangerous lightning.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon along a cold front before tracking into Ontario later this evening. Some storms may reach severe levels.

Environment Canada is warning that heavy rain could cause flash flooding and sharply reduce visibility, while strong winds may damage trees, buildings and even overturn vehicles. Large hail could cause serious injury and damage to property.

Residents are urged to take cover if threatening weather approaches and to head indoors when thunder is heard.

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are ripe for dangerous storms but no severe weather has yet been observed.

Environment Canada is asking the public to report severe weather by email, phone, or using the hashtag #MBStorm on social media.