Severe thunderstorm watch in place across Ottawa; 30,000 without power

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Ottawa North – Kanata – Orléans midmorning Sunday, warning of heavy downpours mixed with hail and high winds.

Ottawans woke up to 99 per cent humidity Sunday morning, but as that wall of humidity hits cooler air, severe storms are forming.

Environment Canada says severe storms are expected to form in the afternoon and into the evening. A line of thunderstorms may develop and move eastward.

The storm will bring with it treacherous conditions. Environment Canada says those in eastern Ontario can expect wind gusts up to 100 km/h and the potential for toonie-sized hail.

“If threatening weather approaches, take cover in a basement or interior room,” the alert from Environment Canada reads. “If outside, protect yourself from flying debris and hail.”

Around 2 p.m. on Sunday, Hydro Ottawa said its crews were aware of over 30,000 customers without power across the city. While crews begin to work to restore power, safety remains the top priority.

For those hoping the storms bring reprieve from the heat, you may be out of luck. A bit of reprieve may come Monday before hot and humid temperatures return Tuesday and continue throughout the week.

Environment Canada says Ottawaans can expect daytime highs of 29 to 32 C with the humidex peaking in the 40s.

Overnight temperatures will remain in the low 20s.