Heavy rain and thunderstorms tracking through the Sudbury area

Environment Canada says it is tracking a severe thunderstorm headed for areas in and around Sudbury and North Bay, and has issued a warning to that effect.

"We are looking at the possibility of wind gusts up to 100 kilometres per hour, and that's damaging gusts. So certainly protect yourself when you're out there." said meteorologist Gerald Cheng.

The agency says there isthe possibility of hail, and people are being reminded that large hail can cause damage to property andinjuries.

"It's possible to see a hail up to threecentimetres in diameter. When it comes down,it can hurt."

The heavy rain is also an issue.

"Certainly we often don't think rain is a threat, but when it comes down 40 mm per hour, it's really a lot in a short amount of time and that could cause flash flooding." said Cheng.

Very strong winds can damage buildings, down power lines and trees, and affect vehicles on the road.

This line of severe thunderstorms is located about north of Sudbury, 25 kilometres southeast of Gogama, and istracking east.

The warning calls for rain from Tuesday afternoon into the evening. The forecast says total local rainfall amounts of 50 to 75 mm with locally higher amounts are possible, with rates of 30 to 40 mm per hour possible.

Environment Canada also says water-related activities may be unsafe in violent and sudden winds over bodies of water.