Tornado watch issued for capital
Federal weather service warns of thunderstorm conditions that could produce tornadoes
The federal weather service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the southwest corner of New Brunswick, but Fredericton got an extra warning that tornadoes are possible.
Environment and Climate Change Canada’s weather service issued a severe thunderstorm watch at about 5 p.m. for Fredericton and southern York County, Woodstock and Carleton County, and St. Stephen and northern Charlotte County for Monday evening.
However, the capital’s alert took things a step further.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible,” the advisory stated.
“There is a tornadic risk this evening with strong thunderstorms tracking into the county from Maine. Damaging straight-line winds and hail are also possible.”
The tornado watch warned that people in the area should prepare for severe weather and take cover as soon as it approaches.
The weather service said people in areas where tornado warnings are in effect or where they develop should go indoors to a room on the lowest floor of the structure, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet.
People are also advised to leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other free-standing structures, moving to stronger buildings if possible.
“As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris,” it said.
In an additional alert at 5:21 p.m., the weather service said its meteorologists were tracking “a severe thunderstorm” capable of producing strong wind gusts, heavy rain and hailstones that could get as big as nickels.
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