Severe weather conditions are shaping up across southern Ontario Wednesday, driven by an unstable, humid atmosphere, and a sharp cold front from Michigan acting as the primary trigger. At least two rounds of storms are expected.
All severe hazards are possible this afternoon and evening, including torrential rain, damaging winds, and very large hail (larger than golf ball size). There is also a potential for one or two tornadoes.
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Be sure to stay alert to the changing conditions, and check for any weather warnings in your area.
Round 1: Intense lightning reported
Early morning thunderstorms brought intense lightning and heavy rain to areas from southern Georgian Bay into the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and southwestern Ontario with the passage of a warm front.
Midday clearing:
Behind the warm front, temperatures will climb into the high 20s, with humidex values reaching the upper 30s to low 40s in southwestern Ontario. This heating primes the atmosphere for stronger storms later in the day.
Round 2: Severe and dangerous storm set up
Severe storms will intensify ahead of the cold front, sweeping from Barrie through the GTA and into eastern Ontario between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Risks include torrential rain, damaging winds, large hail (greater than golf ball size), and isolated tornadoes. Areas west of Toronto to Lake Huron and east to Bancroft-Kingston show an elevated tornado risk.
Trailing storms are possible near London around the dinner hour.
Potential impacts:
Power outages and tree damage due to strong winds.
Localized flooding from heavy rain.
Potential property damage from hail and storms.
Stay updated with watches and warnings as timing remains uncertain.
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