UPDATE: The storm has passed.
Environment Canada has issued a tornado watch for Dryden, Vermilion Bay, Ignace, English River and the surrounding communities.
A tornado watch means that conditions are favourable for the development of a tornado.
Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes.
Hazards:
Possible tornadoes.
Hail 3 to 5 cm in diameter.
Damaging wind gusts to 100 km/h. Isolated gusts to 120 km/h possible.
Where:
Portions of northwestern Ontario including Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Atikokan, Ear Falls
When:
Late this afternoon and early evening.
Discussion:
Thunderstorms are developing this afternoon and may become severe with large hail and damaging winds. Latest analysis is suggesting a higher risk of a tornado and therefore the severe thunderstorm watch has been upgraded to a tornado watch.
Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.
In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area, it is recommended you take the following actions: Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet. Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.
Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.