Dangerous storms set to hammer Toronto and southern Ontario with 100 km/h winds

Latest update: Environment Canada says a line of severe thunderstorms extending from Orillia to London is moving east at roughly 70 km/h. The system is capable of producing damaging wind gusts of up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall totals of 20 to 40 mm.

Forecasters warn that some of the strongest winds may occur without accompanying rain or thunderstorms. Communities currently in the storm’s path include Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan and Markham, where residents could see rapidly changing conditions through the evening.

Residents across much of southern Ontario are being urged to keep an eye on the sky as conditions become favourable for severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail and torrential rainfall later today.

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch covering a large portion of the region, including major centres such as Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and surrounding communities.

Forecasters say a line of strong thunderstorms moving in from Lake Huron is expected to track across southern Ontario late this afternoon and into the early evening.

The most significant threats include wind gusts of up to 100 km/h, hail up to the size of quarters and heavy rainfall that could exceed 30 mm in some areas.

The storms could lead to localized flooding, downed tree branches and power outages. Officials also warn that strong winds and hail may pose a risk of injury and damage to property.

Environment Canada is reminding residents that if threatening weather approaches, they should move indoors immediately and secure any loose outdoor objects that could become airborne in strong winds.

“When thunder roars, go indoors” remains the key safety message, as lightning continues to be one of the leading weather-related causes of injury and death in Canada.

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms, though severe weather may not occur in every community under the watch area.

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts and forecasts throughout the afternoon and evening as conditions continue to evolve.