Published on June 13, 2024 at 3:31 p.m.
Thunderstorms have already broken out in eastern Ontario and Quebec could well be next. Signs of rotation were observed, tornadoes are very possible in Quebec Thursday afternoon and evening. This is the moment that should be critical for each sector concerned.
In short :
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Severe thunderstorms expected;
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Tornado watches issued for certain areas;
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Possibility of golf ball sized hailstones;
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Gusts of up to 100 km/h;
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Heavy rain anticipated.
Severe thunderstorms: what to expect in each affected area?
The frontal system has entered the gates of the Abitibi-Témiscamingue province. Thunder could begin to sound late in the afternoon.
The same storm cells will then continue their trajectory towards the east. The Outaouais could experience the potential for large hailstones, up to 4 cm in diameter, and thunderstorms around supper time.
“Subsequently, the storms will form a line and move towards the regions along the St. Lawrence valley, including the greater Montreal area, later this evening, around 11 p.m.,” indicates Nicolas Lessard, meteorologist.
Risk of tornadoes: critical moments
The sectors affected by tornado watches issued by Environment Canada are as follows: Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Haute-Gatineau – Lièvre – Papineau, Mont-Laurier, Parent – Gouin reservoir, Pontiac and La Vérendrye wildlife reserve.
Gusts of up to 110 km/h are possible, while hailstones the size of golf balls could fall on the province. Torrential rain is also forecast with 50 millimeters expected. The risk of a tornado would be concentrated over a five-hour period, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. in western Quebec. The system should therefore decrease in intensity after leaving Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Outaouais.
What to do ?
Note that in the event of a tornado, it is recommended to go indoors, to the room on the lowest level. It is also advisable to position yourself away from windows and exterior walls, such as in a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet. People who are trapped in a vehicle or even in a tent should seek refuge in a solid structure if possible. As a last resort, you must lie down on the ground in a low place and protect your head from thrown objects.
With the participation of Nicolas Lessard, meteorologist
