"Dangerous thunderstorms" loom for parts of southern Ontario; 75 mm of rain, hail, strong winds, and flash floods big concern

Monday, August 4, 2014, 12:46 PM -

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The drive home from the cottage may be a slow one for many across southern Ontario, as severe thunderstorms roll through the area.

Environment Canada has issued widespread thunderstorm watches and warnings for the region, stating: "Warm and humid air is creating favourable conditions for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and torrential rain."

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Although rainfall amounts of 50 to 75 mm is the greatest threat, localized hail of 2 cm in diameter and brief wind gusts of 90 km/h are also possible, adds EC.

ONTARIO FLOODS: See dramatic photo's from Monday's storms.

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority is reminding residents to stay away from rivers and streams, as heavy rainfall will result in higher than normal water levels and flows.

CityNews Toronto reports four members of a family were taken to hospital after being struck by lightning in the Morningside Avenue and Kingston Road area just before 3:30 p.m. Monday. 

Police say injuries to the two adults and two children are not life-threatening.

An ambulance parked at the scene at Morningside Park was damaged when lightning hit a tree near the vehicle.

No one was injured.

BEAT THE TRAFFIC: How will your commute be affected? Rely on Beat the Traffic for real-time traffic updates that matter to you. Visit www.beatthetraffic.com and download the app on iTunes or Google Play and get there sooner!

Our team of reporters will be providing LIVE updates on The Weather Network on TV throughout the day. 

If travel is a concern, we recommend downloading the Beat the Traffic app for the most up to date road information.

Be sure to monitor our ALERTS page for updated watches and warnings.

Residents are being advised to take cover immediately should severe weather develop. Here are a few tips that can help keep you safe, courtesy of The Weather Network and the Canadian and American Red Cross. 

LIGHTNING SAFETY TIPS 

• Stay away from windows. 
• Unplug appliances. 
• Do not use the telephone. 
• Avoid running tap water. 
• Try to reach a safe building or vehicle (picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT considered safe). 
• Avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. 
• If you are out on the water, get to land and find shelter immediately. 

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING SIGNS 

• Large hail 
• Strong winds 
• Debris clouds and tree damage 
• Torrential rain 
• Severe thunder/lightning 
• Dark, often greenish clouds Funnel clouds

Viewer photos, videos and #onstorm tweets: