Weather advisory: 90 km/h winds, rain and hail warnings issued for Niagara

Some turbulent weather is headed to the Niagara region this afternoon.

Environment Canada has issued a thunderstorm watch warning of torrential rain, strong winds of up to 90 km/h and the potential for hail.

The following areas are impacted:

• Niagara Falls
• Welland
• St. Catharines
• Lincoln
• Thorold
• Grimsby
• Port Colborne
• Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Lincoln
• Pelham
• Wainfleet
• Haldimand County

The advisory states that conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms by mid- to late afternoon. These thunderstorms will bring heavy rain—the approximate accumulation is unknown—and hail measuring up to 2 cm in diameter.

The cold front passing through southern Ontario is expected to trigger these storms.

Environment Canada has noted on its website that strong wind gusts could cause damage by tossing loose objects, breaking tree branches or overturning large vehicles.

Residents are advised to take immediate cover if threatening weather approaches.

Emergency Management Ontario emphasizes the importance of moving indoors when thunder is heard, as lightning remains a significant risk during thunderstorms.

Residents can consult their local Conservation Authority or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for flooding information.