Lightning strikes during a thunderstorm. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / PietusLightning strikes during a thunderstorm. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / Pietus
Windsor

UPDATE: Severe thunderstorms to roar across region late Monday

It is expected to be a stormy evening across much of southwestern Ontario Monday.

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent, London-Middlesex, Sarnia-Lambton, and Oxford and Elgin counties Monday afternoon.

The national weather agency warned that thunderstorms over lower Michigan were likely to move into the region late in the afternoon and continue into the evening. The initial watch was upgraded to a severe thunderstorm warning before it was ended entirely by 7 p.m.

The potential storms were forecasted to pack torrential downpours capable of dropping 50mm or more and strong winds gusting up to 90 km/h.

"Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm that develops," Environment Canada said. "Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads."

The storm system was expected to bring an end to the extreme heat that has blanketed the region since late last week. The heat warning in the area persisted and remained in place until just after 9 p.m.

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