Severe thunderstorm watch in effect in northeast as hundreds without power amid heat

After being hit hard by thunderstorms in May, the Town of Mattawa has delayed Canada Day celebrations after another storm hit on June 30.

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch Canada Day for Greater Sudbury and North Bay.

The watches come as heat warnings are already in effect across northeastern Ontario as temperatures July 1 exceed 30 C. Hundreds of people are also without power in areas east and south of North Bay following storms that hit the area Tuesday.

“We just can’t get a break,” said Mattawa resident Dan MacDonald in a message to CTV News.

The storm prompted officials in Mattawa to cancel Canada Day activities.

“Yet another severe windstorm has caused widespread damage,” said a post on the community’s Facebook page.

“A power outage is ongoing ... Cellular services are also impacted. It is unknown when services will be restored.”

Since town staff is needed to help with the cleanup from the storm, Canada Day festivities have been rescheduled to July 5.

Environment Canada said more severe weather could be on the way Wednesday afternoon or evening.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” Environment Canada said.

“Thunderstorms may develop quickly and bring strong winds, hail and heavy rain. There is a risk of injury.”

Rain of up to 40 mm is possible, along with hail the size of ping-pong balls.

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind or rain.

To report severe weather, send an email to [e-mail].

For more information on being prepared for an emergency, click here.