Vancouver thunderstorm warning upgraded to 'severe'

Environment Canada has upgraded its thunderstorm warning for Metro Vancouver to “severe”.

The warning, posted at 10:23 am on Thursday morning, states that, “Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.”

Environment Canada warns that the region could be set for “intense lightning,” and that heavy rain could cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.

“The main threat of these severe thunderstorms are heavy downpours,” the warning states. “Large hail is also possible with these thunderstorms.”

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce hail, damaging winds and torrential rainfall.

Environment Canada is also warning the public to be wary of lightning. “Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year,” they state. “Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”

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