Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the North Bay area. That includes North Bay, Mattawa, Powassan and French River.

There is a severe thunderstorm warning for West Nipissing.

The advisory says conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, damaging hail and heavy rain.

A cold front sweeping across northeastern Ontario is expected to trigger some fast moving thunderstorms.

This front combined with the high heat and humidity is expected to generate a few severe thunderstorms this afternoon and into the early evening.

Very large hail can damage property, break windows, dent vehicles and cause serious injury.

Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road.

Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.

The area remains under a heat warning.

Filed under: Environment Canada, thunderstorm watch