THUNDER BAY - Environment Canada has declared a severe thunderstorm watch for the city of Thunder Bay.
The national weather service said conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.
Thunderstorms are expected to develop Thursday afternoon and will continue into the evening.
Environment Canada is reminding residents large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.
"Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall," the release reads.
The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management recommends citizens take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.
