A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Gimli and surrounding communities on Monday afternoon, with Environment Canada warning of a developing weather system that could bring large hail, strong wind gusts, and possible tornadoes.
The Environment Canada watch covers the Rural Municipality of Gimli, including Winnipeg Beach and Arnes, and was issued at 2:22 p.m. CDT. Forecasters say a low pressure system combined with an unstable atmosphere over southern Manitoba is creating conditions ripe for severe storms.
As of 3 p.m. Monday, the temperature in Gimli sat at 23.8°C with a humidex of 31 and humidity at 80 per cent. The falling pressure signals the arrival of unstable weather. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to begin early this evening, with 10 to 15 millimetres of rain possible. Winds could shift to the northeast at 20 km/h before picking up from the southwest at 50 km/h, gusting to 70, ahead of Tuesday morning.
The stormy pattern is not expected to let up quickly. Tuesday will bring a 70 per cent chance of showers or thunderstorms and a high of 23°C, with southwest winds continuing to gust near 70 km/h. On Canada Day, Wednesday July 1, showers are forecast with a high of just 21°C and a 60 per cent chance of more rain at night.
Residents are urged to be prepared for severe weather and to take cover in a basement or interior room if threatening conditions develop. “When thunder roars, go indoors!” Environment Canada advises, noting that lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.
Conditions are expected to improve by Friday, when a mix of sun and cloud will push temperatures to 25°C, with clear skies at night and a low of 17°C.
