Severe Thunderstorm watch issued for Windsor-Essex

(File photo)

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Windsor-Essex.

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

There’s a potential for torrential downpours and local rainfall amounts in excess of 50 millimetres. Wind gusts of 90 to 110 km/h. Quarter to ping pong ball size hail.

The storm is expected late Tuesday morning through early evening. The main hazards will be heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts. The greatest likelihood for damaging wind gusts is expected to be over southwestern Ontario. A few instances of large hail are possible.

Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible.

Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding and significant reductions to visibility.