3:20 PM EDT Saturday 17 August 2024 Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect for: Niagara Falls - Welland - Southern Niagara Region Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain. Hazards: 90 km/h wind gusts. Nickel size hail. Heavy downpours. There is a risk of tornadoes. Timing: Today through this evening. Discussion: The primary threat with these thunderstorms is heavy rain. Rainfall rates of 50 mm per hour are possible with these thunderstorms. Refer to the Rainfall Warnings and Special Weather Statements in effect for details on rainfall totals. These thunderstorm may also be capable of producing 90 km/h wind gusts and nickel size hail. These thunderstorms will dissipate this evening as daytime heating comes to an end. Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors! Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm . For more information: ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency . Statements 2:13 PM EDT Saturday 17 August 2024 Special Weather Statement in effect for: Niagara Falls - Welland - Southern Niagara Region Significant rainfall is expected through Sunday. Hazards: Local rainfall amounts of 30 to 60 mm. Rainfall rates of up to 40 mm in an hour. Timing: Continuing this afternoon through Sunday. Discussion: Rain will continue into Sunday. Locally higher amounts in thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening. This weather pattern typically brings rapidly changing conditions between sunny skies and heavy downpours. Rainfall warnings may be required and issued on short notice to reflect rapidly changing conditions. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. For information concerning flooding, please consult your local Conservation Authority or Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry office. Visit Ontario.ca/floods for the latest details. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm .