Severe thunderstorms possible across northwestern Ontario

There is the potential for severe thunderstorms across portions of northwestern and far northern Ontario this afternoon and evening.

The most significant threat is near Atikokan and Upsala, where scattered thunderstorms could produce wind gusts of up to 100 km/h, hail up to four centimetres in diameter and torrential downpours producing up to 50 mm of rain. There is also a slight risk of a tornado.

Farther east, areas between Lake of the Woods and Lake Nipigon could see wind gusts of up to 90 km/h, hail up to four centimetres in diameter and rainfall amounts of up to 50 mm.

Across northwestern Ontario and portions of far northern Ontario, isolated to scattered thunderstorms could produce wind gusts of up to 80 km/h, hail up to two centimetres in diameter and up to 30 mm of rain.

Isolated thunderstorms are also possible across portions of northern and far northern Ontario, with rainfall amounts of up to 25 mm and a risk of lightning strikes.

The strongest storms could produce damaging winds, large hail and heavy rainfall. Loose objects could be tossed, while weak structures, trees and power lines could be damaged.

Localized flooding is also possible in low-lying areas.