A tornado alert issued for the Ottawa area has been downgraded, but residents are still being urged to remain alert as the region faces the risk of severe thunderstorms and potentially dangerous weather conditions.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has lowered the alert level as the immediate threat of a tornado has eased. However, thunderstorms moving through the region may still produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, heavy rainfall, frequent lightning and localized flooding.
Forecasters are continuing to monitor the storm system as it moves across the area. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and stronger thunderstorms could develop or intensify with little notice.
Residents in and around Ottawa are being advised to keep checking official weather alerts and be prepared to move indoors if conditions worsen. During severe thunderstorms, people should stay inside, keep away from windows and avoid unnecessary travel until the threat has passed.
Strong winds can bring down trees and power lines, while hail and lightning can damage property and create dangerous conditions outdoors. Heavy rainfall may also reduce visibility on roads and lead to water pooling or localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Drivers are being encouraged to use extra caution, slow down and avoid driving through flooded roads. Motorists caught in an intense storm should find a safe place to stop rather than continuing through dangerous conditions.
The downgrade means the immediate tornado threat has decreased, but it does not mean the weather situation is completely safe. Severe thunderstorms can still cause significant damage, and residents should continue to monitor updates from official weather authorities.
Officials will continue tracking the storm system and may issue, modify or cancel warnings as conditions develop. Residents are encouraged to keep weather notifications enabled and follow local emergency instructions if a new warning is issued.