A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for areas in the southern portion of the province.

Environment Canada says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

The weather agency says thunderstorms have developed and will continue to move eastward throughout the afternoon and evening. Some of these thunderstorms will become severe, with large hail and strong wind gusts being the main threats. Thunderstorms are expected to persist until late this evening.

It adds that large hail can damage property and cause injury, strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles.

Environment Canada is reminding residents that severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes, heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.