Toronto braces for severe storms, heavy rain and tornado risk Wednesday

Toronto faces its most dangerous weather of the year Wednesday with severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and a risk of isolated tornadoes expected between 4 and 8 p.m.

Environment Canada forecasts 20 to 30 mm of rain today, with another 15 to 25 mm possible tonight. The Weather Network warns that southern Ontario could see damaging winds, hail larger than golf balls and torrential rain. A sharp cold front moving in from Michigan, combined with hot and humid air building through the day, could fuel strong storms. Toronto's high is expected to reach 28 C with a humidex of 36.

Forecasters expect at least two rounds of storms, with the second and potentially more severe round arriving as the cold front moves through. Areas west of Toronto toward Lake Huron and areas east toward Bancroft and Kingston face elevated tornado risk. Potential impacts include power outages and tree damage from strong winds, localized flooding from torrential rain, and property damage from hail.

Conditions should settle overnight, though a 40 per cent chance of showers and continued risk of thunderstorms remains. Thursday brings a mix of sun and cloud with a high of 27 C. The rest of the week looks more stable — Friday reaches 26 C, Saturday 25 C, Sunday and Monday both 24 C.