Update: Thunderstorm watch for Howe Sound rescinded

UPDATE: The thunderstorm watch issued at 5 pm today has been rescinded by Environment Canada.

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A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Howe Sound.

According to the latest warning by Environment Canada, conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms that may produce strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

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Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for thunderstorms that could produce large hail, damaging winds, and torrential rainfall. Intense lightning is also likely with thunderstorms and heavy downpours that can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.

“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,” the agency warns.

The agency further cautions that any water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors! Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.