Environment Canada has issued a tornado watch for Hastings County and a severe thunderstorm watch for the rest of the greater Kawarthas region for Thursday afternoon into early evening (June 16).
Thunderstorms are expected to develop early Thursday afternoon with the potential for quick intensification as they progress eastward.
In Hastings County, a tornado or two will be possible in the afternoon before the threat transitions to primarily wind.
For the rest of the Kawarthas region (Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland, and Haliburton), a tornado or two cannot be completely ruled out, but damaging winds and hail will be the primary threats.
For all areas, wind gusts of 90 to 110 km/h are possible along with nickel to ping pong ball sized hail.
A tornado is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. 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.
