storm warning vs watch

Ontario city uses hilarious diagram of shawarma to explain the weather

Ontario has witnessed a wild summer of weather extremes, including many storm watches and warnings.

But, if, like many others, you are having a difficult time distinguishing between the two levels of storm alerts, the City of Ottawa has got you covered with a helpful and hilarious diagram that leans into its reputation as not just Canada's capital, but also the nation's shawarma capital.

While it is probably best known for its grand government buildings, Chateau-style architecture, and scenic canal and locks, Ottawa is a certified shawarma hub with over 200 restaurants specializing in the Middle Eastern street food.

So what better way to help locals understand the difference between storm warnings and storm watches than with a diagram using the beloved meal to illustrate what constitutes a watch versus a warning?

The diagram compares a storm watch to shawarma, explaining that meteorologists will issue a watch when all the "ingredients" for a storm (or delicious snack) are in place. In contrast, a storm warning occurs when a storm is already occurring, compared in the diagram to "having shawarma right now!"

Many commenters loved the humorous comparison, but a few were quick to point out that the illustration of a shawarma looked incomplete in terms of toppings.

Others cracked fitting jokes.

But this is the internet, and many more commenters complained about the post. One user called the post "cringe," while another asked, "This is what our tax dollars are going to?"

Regardless of your take on the post, you might find yourself daydreaming about a delicious shawarma the next time you hear the distant rumble of thunder or see the skies darkening.

Lead photo by

Azovsky/Shutterstock | Parilov/Shutterstock


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

Canadians can get gift card in Ticketmaster class action and here's who is eligible

Here's what the new Bank of Canada interest rate cut means

2025 declared 'the year of digging' for $27 billion Ontario Line

Here's why one guy kept making Avatar references at Toronto City Hall meeting

Locals impatient about Toronto venue under repair for ages with no end in sight

Lawsuit filed after deaths of Toronto mother and son on trip to Dominican Republic

Controversial Toronto project will make traffic even worse than initially thought

Ontario Child benefit can get parents almost $1,700 per kid every year