Firefighters in Chatham-Kent are reminding residents what to do if a severe storm hits.
Environment Canada says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rain.
A line of thunderstorms coming in from lower Michigan will reach southwestern Ontario late Wednesday afternoon. Damaging winds and tornadoes are the main hazards, but heavy rain and twoonie-sized hail could also be possible across the municipality.
“With the confirmation of two tornadoes in our area, we are thankful that no one was hurt,” said Assistant Fire Chief Ken Labonte. “The family knew what to do, they immediately went down the basement.”
Fire officials recommend preparing a 72-hour emergency kit.
“Know the difference between a watch and a warning,” said Public Information Officer Whitney Burk. "A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible in and near your area. A warning means a tornado is near and you need to move to a safe location right away."
Signs of dangerous weather include an extremely dark sky, sometimes highlighted by green or yellow clouds, a rumbling sound or a whistling sound, or a funnel cloud at the rear base of a thundercloud, often behind a curtain of heavy rain or hail.
With damaging winds expect downed wires. Never try to move downed wires or remove tree limbs.
Keep people and pets at least 10 metres (the length of a school bus) away from downed overhead power lines and warn others of the danger.
In case of an emergency, always call 911.
