Conditions aligned for a damaging storm-set up across parts of southern Ontario
Severe storms tore through parts of southern Ontario on Thursday, with damaging wind gusts uprooting trees and knocking out power.
After several consecutive days of high heat and humidity, a strong lake breeze boundary pushed across southern Ontario on Thursday afternoon, sparking multiple severe thunderstorms across the region.
By about 4 p.m., parts of the northern Greater Toronto Area were beginning to see isolated heavy rain, as the storms continued to strengthen as they moved slowly south towards Lake Ontario.
Powerful wind gusts progressively became more of a concern, as the strongest storm cells reached Etobicoke and Mississauga. Torrential downpours and large hail were reported along with damaging winds that were enough to uproot trees and knock out power. At the height of the storm, Toronto Hydro reported that about 1500 customers were left in the dark.
Major cleanup ongoing overnight in the residential area of Roseland Dr & Foch Ave in south Etobicoke - Jeremy Cohn.
Major clean-up continued through the overnight hours for one residential area that was hit particularly hard in south Etobicoke. The area was plunged into darkness as large trees hit powerlines and storm debris littered the streets. One tree was so large that it actually lifted up part of the paved street and a driveway. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Friday's thunderstorm risk will be confined to mostly far southwestern Ontario, with a risk for severe storms around Windsor and Sarnia.
The most potent storms could produce strong wind gusts and heavy rainfall.
Fresher air behind a cold front will help to briefly knock temperatures and humidity levels down to a manageable level to end the week.
Highs in Toronto will peak around 26°C on Friday, with a humidex in the lower 30s. It'll remain hot and humid in southwestern Ontario, though, where Windsor and London will see highs in the mid-30s and humidex values pushing 40. The widespread heat and humidity will build back in again for much of southern Ontario through the weekend.
Here's a closer look at the significant storm damage from Thursday:
Stay with The Weather Network for the latest forecast across Ontario.
Thumbnail image courtesy: Jeremy Cohn.