Storms brew as heat and humidity return to eastern Ontario

The slight reprieve from the heat is coming to an end as temperatures begin to ramp up again across eastern Ontario.

According to Environment Canada the temperature could reach as high as 33 C Thursday, with the humidity making it feel like 42.

Above average temperatures are expected to last throughout the weekend and early next week with showers on Tuesday and Wednesday cooling off.

This year has been marked by extreme heat. Thursday marks the seventh time the temperature has hit 30 C in July, compared to two times in July 2024 and four times in July 2023.

The high heat brings with it the potential for storms.

Environment Canada says there is a 70 per cent chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday night into Friday morning. With it brings winds of 20 km/h with gusts of up to 40 km/h.

No severe weather alerts have been issued for Ottawa yet but a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the area ranging from Parry Sound east to Petawawa.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and torrential rain,” Environment Canada said, stating that wind gusts could reach up to 110 km/h.

Significant damage to property, buildings and trees is possible.

The OPP East Region took to X to remind people to stay off the roads if weather conditions look bad.

“We have seen tragic outcomes during similar storms this summer, where trees have fallen, causing a death and serious injuries,” the force wrote. “While we are not weather forecasters, public safety is our top priority. Be prepared and stay safe.”