A tornado watch issued for the Barrie, Collingwood and Hillsdale area on Friday has been downgraded to a watch.
Environment Canada initially issued the warning at around 5:30 p.m., saying meteorologists in Ontario were tracking a thunderstorm that had the potential to produce a tornado.
By around 6:20 p.m., that warning had been downgraded to a watch.
Environment Canada said conditions in the Barrie, Orillia and Midland area were “favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes.”
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“Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible,” the weather agency said.
Environment Canada said a tornado “is possible.”
The weather agency said strong wind gusts of up to 100 km/h, nickel to ping pong ball size hail and torrential downpours could also hit the area.
“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation,” the notice read. “Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.”
Environment Canada said in the event of a tornado or a tornado warning, people should go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows.
Areas such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet are advised.
“Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can,” the agency said. “As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.”
A severe thunderstorm warning is also in effect for the Barrie, Collingwood and Hillsdale areas.
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