Severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings ended in Ottawa region
Posted Aug 29, 2018 05:16:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Environment Canada meteorologists tracked a severe thunderstorm, that it thought could produce a tornado, right across the Ottawa region.
The agency expected damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall starting at 12:50 p.m. Wednesday.
As of 1:14 p.m., radar indicated a tornado may be forming about 10 km north of Smith Falls moving eastwards at 40 km per hour.
Meteorologists recommended residents take cover at that time.
Hydro Ottawa reported more than 14,000 customers losing power in the Barrhaven area during the storm. The utility was able to restore power within 10 minutes.
As of 2 p.m. severe storm warnings had moved east and by 2:25 p.m., had turned to watches in Prescott, Russell and Maxville-Alexandria.
Environment Canada reminds residents that, in the event of a tornado, get indoors, to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet. Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if possible.
As a last resort, those caught in a severe storm can lie in a low spot and protect their heads from flying debris.
This afternoon's storm was part 1 of a nasty weather system the capital is expected to see, Wednesday.
More storms are forecasted to roll through the capital between 8:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m.
