Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Kingston and area

Environment Canada has now issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Kingston and the area, and storms appear to be rolling into the area.

At 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8, 2019, Environment Canada issued the following warning for Kingston, Odessa, and Frontenac Islands:

Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing very strong wind gusts, up to nickel size hail and heavy rain.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!

Severe thunderstorm warnings are issued when imminent or occurring thunderstorms are likely to produce or are producing one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall.

The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.

Kingstonist has received reports of reduced visibility on Highway 401 due to the rain. Please exercise caution when driving in heavy rain, and seek shelter if extreme weather approaches.