The Mont-Tremblant-Sainte-Agathe area is under a tornado warning, while the Greater Montreal area is under a severe thunderstorm watch Monday afternoon. A tornado watch is also in effect in the Gatineau area.
“Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a thunderstorm that is possibly producing a tornado. Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible,” Environment and Climate Change Canada said about the Mont-Tremblant area.
ECCC is advising those in the Mont-Tremblant region to not go indoors on the lowest floor and stay away from walls and windows.
“Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. One or more weak tornadoes may be occurring in the area. They sometimes appear as funnel clouds with swirling debris near the ground,” Environment Canada said. “Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.”
Tornado warnings are issued whhn thunderstorms are likely to produce tornadoes.
The agency notes the thunderstorm is expected to roll in starting Monday afternoon in Montreal.
While the “conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms capable of producing very strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy downpours,” said Environment and Climate Change Canada, of the Montreal area.
Drivers are being advised to avoid using the road if possible.
“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads,” the government department warns. “Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors.”
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions favour the development of thunderstorms that could produce large hail, damaging winds or torrential rainfall.