Rain and thunderstorms return to Ontario, building heat and humidity ahead
Rain and thunderstorms will sweep into southern Ontario overnight Friday, with the potential for severe thunderstorms on Saturday. Heat and humidity are set to intensify across the region next week
After an extended dry period, southern Ontario is set for a pattern change as showers and thunderstorms develop Friday evening and into early Saturday morning.
DON'T MISS: Visit our complete guide to Summer 2026 for an in-depth look at the Summer Forecast, tips to plan for it and much more!
Residents should be prepared for potential overnight storms that may bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
Weekend begins with rain and thunderstorm chances
Showers and thunderstorms will move across regions from the Huron shores to southern Ontario beginning Friday evening, with widespread nocturnal storms expected through predawn hours Saturday.
Although drier weather is anticipated Saturday, parts of cottage country and eastern Ontario could see scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Some of these storms may intensify, bringing hail and strong wind gusts.
Isolated storms may also develop near Lakes Erie and Ontario later in the day. Monitoring local weather alerts is advised.
Conditions will stabilize on Sunday, bringing more settled weather and extended sunshine hours across the region.
Ridge builds next week bringing more sunshine and heat, humidity
Looking toward next week, a building ridge is set to bring widespread heat and humidity across Ontario, including the north with ongoing wildfire concerns.
SEE ALSO: The pros and cons of an El Niño summer across Canada
Highs may reach the upper 20s to low 30s, with humidex values pushing into the upper 30s or low 40s in southern regions.
Scattered mid- to late-week thunderstorms are also possible. Prepare for much stickier and uncomfortable conditions compared to the recent dry weather.
Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across Ontario.