Severe thunderstorm warning issued for parts of southwestern Ontario

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of southwestern Ontario, including Brantford, Norfolk County, Haldimand County and Woodstock as a fast-moving line of storms tracks through the region.

Meteorologists said at 5:20 p.m. that the storm system stretched from near Flamborough to near Port Burwell Provincial Park and was moving east at approximately 70 km/h.

The warning states the storms are capable of producing wind gusts up to 90 km/h, nickel-sized hail and a risk of a tornado.

Environment Canada warned local utility outages are likely, while large hail could cause damage and injury. Residents are being urged to take immediate shelter if threatening weather approaches and to stay away from windows and flying debris.

Emergency Management Ontario said people outdoors should seek cover immediately during severe weather conditions.

Severe thunderstorm warnings are issued when storms capable of producing damaging wind, hail or heavy rain are imminent or already occurring.