Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Toronto region by Environment Canada

Toronto and several parts of the Greater Toronto Area are under a severe thunderstorm watch as forecasters warn of damaging winds, large hail and dangerous heat conditions.

Environment Canada issued the alert on Tuesday, saying conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms later in the day.

The national weather agency warned the region could see hail up to quarter-sized and wind gusts between 90 and 110 km/h.

“Damaging wind gusts will be the main threat with these storms,” Environment Canada said.

“Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible.”

The thunderstorm watch comes as a heat warning remains in effect across the city during Toronto’s first major heat event of the season.

Temperatures reached 30C by late afternoon, with humid conditions making it feel closer to 36C.

Environment Canada urged residents to take precautions during the extreme heat, warning that “extreme heat can affect everyone’s health.”

A major cooldown is expected later this week, with daytime highs forecast to fall to 18C on Wednesday and as low as 13C by Saturday.