UPDATE — Upgraded to warning: Environment Canada issues severe thunderstorm watch for Kingston area

UPDATE (Monday, May 16, 2022, 1:10 p.m.):

Environment Canada has upgraded their severe thunderstorm watch, issued earlier today, to a severe thunderstorm warning.

The warning is in effect for Kingston, Odessa, Frontenac Islands, Napanee, and Consecon, with Picton and Sandbanks Park remaining at a severe thunderstorm warning level.

“Persons in or near this area should be on the lookout for adverse weather conditions and take necessary safety precautions,” the weather agency stated. Full details of what is expected can be found in the original article, below.

Original Article:

Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Kingston and the area on Monday, May 16, 2022. The watch is in effect for Kingston, Odessa, Frontenac Islands, Napanee, Consecon, Picton and Sandbanks Park.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail,” the national weather agency said in the alert.

According to Environment Canada, the storm is expected to occur this afternoon and early evening.

“Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles,” Environment Canada said. “Locally heavy rain is also possible. Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm that develops. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”

Kingstonist will update this article if/when more information becomes available.