Ottawa weather: Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Ottawa and eastern Ontario [Video]

A series of weather watches are in effect across Ottawa and eastern Ontario, as severe storms move through the area.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Ottawa and the Renfrew, Arnprior and Calabogie area. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for an area stretching from Belleville to Cornwall and the Ottawa Valley. 

At 2:20 p.m., a band of severe weather was moving across eastern Ontario, stretching from Kawartha Lakes to Pembroke and moving east. Heavy rain was also reported in the Hawkesbury area.

Environment Canada says the conditions are “favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.” The weather statement warns areas could see “torrential downpours with 50 mm (of rain) falling within an hour” and wind gusts up to 90 km/h.

“At 2:21 p.m. Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable …