Severe thunderstorms in Quebec could lead to large hail, flash flooding today

Much of the province of Quebec could see flash flooding, large hail and heavy rain this afternoon and evening, Environment and Climate Change Canada is warning.

The agency issued on Thursday morning a severe thunderstorm watch for multiple regions, including the greater Montreal area, the Quebec City region, the Eastern Townships, the Laurentians and Trois-Rivières. It's warning the public of potential power outages and the possibility of large hail and flash flooding causing important damage.

"Heavy rain can cause flash flooding and significant reductions to visibility," the statement from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) reads. "Strong wind gusts can damage trees, buildings and overturn vehicles."

ECCC issues severe thunderstorm watches when "conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind or rain."