Severe storms possible as heat wave grips Ontario

As Ontario continues to be hit with a heat wave, thunderstorms could bring strong winds and hail to parts of the province.

The province is expected to start feeling the worst of its latest heat wave Tuesday as forecasters predict temperatures in the mid- to high 30s, and humidex readings near the mid-40s.

Amid the heat, severe storms are possible in some areas.

Environment Canada has issued thunderstorm outlooks.

Here’s a look at what is expected:

Tuesday p.m.

Eastern Ontario, including the Ottawa area (location A on the map below), could see isolated storms.

“Any thunderstorm that develops will have the potential to produce damaging winds and large hail,” forecasters said.

“Thunderstorm development in this area may not occur until the late afternoon or evening.”

Up to 40 mm of rain is possible locally.

Power outages and property damage are possible.

West of there, for location B on the map, isolated thunderstorms are also possible with up to 40 mm of rain.

“Any thunderstorms that do develop have the potential to become severe, featuring strong winds and/or hail,” Environment Canada said.

“Confidence is notably lower that storms will develop in this area, however.”

For other areas shaded in grey on the map, isolated or scattered thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon and evening. They could drop up to 25 mm of rain locally.

Wednesday

On Wednesday, extreme southwestern Ontario, including the Windsor area (location A below), might see strong storms.

“Confidence is low regarding the development of isolated thunderstorms in afternoon and evening. However, given the hot and humid airmass in place, any thunderstorms that do develop could become severe, with the potential to produce damaging winds and large hail,” Environment Canada said.

They could bring 20 to 30 mm of rain locally.

Other areas shaded in grey, which includes portions of southern, northeastern, and far northeastern Ontario, have the potential for isolated or scattered thunderstorms with up to 25 mm of rain.

“Confidence is low regarding the development of thunderstorms from Niagara extending into southwestern regions Wednesday afternoon,” forecasters noted.

Maps via Environment Canada

— With a file from The Canadian Press