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.”
“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.