Heat blankets Ottawa as severe storms track through eastern Ontario
Posted Jun 30, 2026 01:17:05 PM.
Last Updated Jun 30, 2026 03:45:47 PM.
As humidity climbs to dangerous highs in the Ottawa area, Environment Canada is warning people to be cautious as severe thunderstorms are developing on Tuesday.
A fast-moving system in Kingston was warned by the agency that it could produce a tornado, prompting a red-level warning from Environment Canada.
“Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible,” it noted as of 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
The warning was called off by meteorologists shortly after being issued, but thunderstorms continue rolling through the area.
Conditions in the nation’s capital are “favourable” for the development of a severe storm, that could bring strong gusts and hail to the city.
Temperatures are climbing to 30 C, which will feel more like 38 in Ottawa.
The weather agency says rainfall amounts of 50 mm are possible alongside a risk of tornadoes, and golf ball sized hail on Tuesday afternoon and evening.
Just drove HWY 15 southbound into Kingston where the circulation passed by. So much tree shred and a few trees down along the way. Going to look for more damage. #onstorm 1:11pm pic.twitter.com/kOIYarDsg4
— Connor Mockett (@ConnorMockettWX) June 30, 2026
“Thunderstorms over eastern and central Ontario are expected to keep tracking southeast today, bringing strong winds, hail and heavy rain,” it notes.
Communities south of Perth are watching for thunder and lightning as wind gusts grow and flash flooding is expected.
My god. This is almost as good as it gets in Ontario.
— Connor Mockett (@ConnorMockettWX) June 30, 2026
Crazy tornado warned storm that came into Kingston about 30 minutes ago. Made it just in time to see it!
Going to check for damage in a couple areas like HWY 2 and then Kepler/Glenburnie #onstorm pic.twitter.com/sVb0HVjLv3
