Torrential rain, strong winds and tornado risk loom over southern Ontario

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A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the Greater Toronto Area and much of southern Ontario, according to Environment Canada. The agency warns of heavy rain, large hail, and the possibility of a tornado. This watch covers the Greater Toronto Area and extends from near Sarnia east to Peterborough and north to Barrie. Yellow watches are in effect for areas like Windsor and parts of cottage country.

Conditions are favorable for strong thunderstorms to develop this afternoon as a cold front advances. The weather office predicts torrential downpours, hail the size of ping pong balls, and wind gusts up to 110 kilometers per hour. While there remains some uncertainty about the severity of the storms, the primary concern is the potential for damaging winds and heavy rainfall.

Following a series of lightning strikes and heavy rain this morning, the Canadian Press reports this severe weather warning. The alert was first published on September 2, 2026, by The Canadian Press.